April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month: Don’t Put It Off
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK – and the second biggest cancer killer. But it doesn’t have to be. If caught early, bowel cancer is very treatable.
That’s why this April, we’re asking everyone to get informed and take action.
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer can affect any part of the large bowel, including the colon and rectum. It mostly affects people over 50, but younger adults can get it, too. Early detection is the key to saving lives.
Spot the signs early
It’s easy to ignore the symptoms – but knowing what to look for could save your life:
- Bleeding from your bottom or blood in your poo
- A change in your normal bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tummy pain or a lump
- Feeling very tired without an obvious reason
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Speak to your GP.
Take the test – it could save your life
The NHS offers free bowel cancer screening using the FIT test kit. This home test checks for hidden blood in your poo – a possible early sign of cancer.
Who gets the kit?
Everyone aged 54 to 74 is invited to take part, and the programme is expanding to include people aged 50 to 53 by the end of 2025.
If you’re 75 or older, you can still request a test by calling 0800 707 60 60.
You’ll get a test in the post every two years. It’s quick, simple, and done in the privacy of your own bathroom.
How does it work?
You only need to collect a tiny sample of poo using the plastic stick provided. Pop it into the bottle, close the lid, and post it back using the pre-paid envelope. That’s it.
Even if you feel fine, the test could find cancer before symptoms start.
Put it by the loo. Don’t put it off.
Screening saves lives
- 9 in 5,000 people who return their kit will be diagnosed with cancer.
- 97 to 98 out of 100 people won’t need any further tests.
- If needed, further tests like a colonoscopy can help confirm the results.
- Screening saves thousands of lives each year – and it could save yours.
Screening saves lives
- 9 in 5,000 people who return their kit will be diagnosed with cancer.
- 97 to 98 out of 100 people won’t need any further tests.
- If needed, further tests like a colonoscopy can help confirm the results.
- Screening saves thousands of lives each year – and it could save yours.
People with Lynch syndrome
Some people have a higher risk of bowel cancer due to a genetic condition called Lynch syndrome. It affects about 1 in 400 people, but only 5% know they have it.
If you have Lynch syndrome, you’ll be invited for regular colonoscopies every two years. This can stop bowel cancer from developing or catch it very early.
Real stories, real impact
Stephen completed his test even though he had no symptoms. It turned out he had stage 2 bowel cancer. Thanks to the test, he got treatment in time and has made a full recovery.
Phil was fit and healthy, with only a slight change in his poo. His test revealed stage 3 cancer. After treatment, he’s now clear of cancer and living life to the full.
Help spread the word
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to talk about something we often avoid. Talking about poo might feel awkward – but it can save lives.
Visit nhs.uk/bowel to learn more or get help.
If you’ve received a test kit, don’t leave it sitting in a drawer. Do it today.Â
Your next poo could save your life.
