April marks Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, one of the most common cancers in the UK and NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging everyone to learn the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer and reminding people with no symptoms to take part in bowel screening when they receive their screening kit. April.
Throughout April, NHS Lanarkshire is supporting the national campaign by raising awareness of bowel cancer.
This includes highlighting the importance of early diagnosis in saving lives and sharing key health messages across its digital channels, GP practices and community settings, encouraging people to be aware of symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, unexplained weight loss and ongoing abdominal discomfort.
NHS Lanarkshire’s Public Health Screening Programme Manager, Morag Nicholson said: “Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is an important opportunity to remind people of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer and also the importance of screening. Completing your screening test and seeking advice early can make a real difference and save lives.”
As part of the campaign, residents aged 50 to 74 are being reminded to complete their home bowel screening test when it arrives.
The simple test, delivered by post for completion at home, can detect early signs of cancer before symptoms develop and significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Healthcare teams across Lanarkshire are also promoting the correct use and return of screening kits, alongside signposting to further support and information.
Alongside NHS Lanarkshire, organisations in Lanarkshire are also supporting the campaign by:
- Promoting awareness messages on social media and in local venues
- Encouraging participation in national campaigns such as #BowelCancerAwarenessMonth
- Sharing resources and toolkits to help individuals spread awareness in their communities
- Highlighting free online awareness talks delivered by volunteers who have/ had bowel cancer
While many activities take place online, local engagement is also happening through GP surgeries, pharmacies and communities to reach as many people as possible.
Bowel cancer is highly treatable when detected early, yet many people delay seeking help. NHS Lanarkshire is urging anyone experiencing symptoms to contact their GP practice without delay.
