Jane Ghosh recently questioned why the NHS's routine screening for bowel and breast cancer has upper age limits. Dr John Doherty from Stratford-upon-Avon explains that screening, which tests based on risk rather than symptoms, stops when the potential benefit is outweighed by the risk of harm. Diagnostic testing, however, remains available at any age.
David Duell from Durham adds that individuals over the age thresholds can still request a bowel cancer test every two years or breast cancer screening every three years, though remembering to do so can be challenging.
In other correspondence, Ann Newell from Thame recalls that in the 1950s, chicken was a rare treat, sourced from local farms. She contrasts this with modern battery farming, highlighted by an industrial chicken producer's criticism over river pollution, and suggests it may be time to stop eating chicken.
Rob Johnsey from Falmouth expresses a desire to see an illustration of Tony Capstick's description of a 'great useless, spawny-eyed, parrot-faced wazzock', suggesting artists like Sir Quentin Blake, Gerald Scarfe, or David Shrigley.
Toby Wood from Peterborough humorously notes that Liam Rosenior's reported £4m payoff for Chelsea's disappointing form seems more like a reward than a price, quipping that he may apply to be the next manager.
