Just a tiny bit of poo could be life saving for you

Residents in Liverpool are being encouraged to prioritize the completion of their bowel screening test upon receipt, as it could potentially be life-saving. The National Health Service (NHS) sends out testing kits every two years to individuals aged 50 to 74, enabling them to collect a small sample of their feces for analysis. This Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit specifically aims to detect minuscule traces of blood in feces, which could be indicative of bowel cancer.

While the presence of blood in the sample may stem from other medical conditions and not necessarily indicate cancer, early detection significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. The screening campaign extends throughout Cheshire and Merseyside but has a particular focus on specific areas, including Liverpool. Individuals registered with a GP practice will receive a screening kit through the mail every two years between the ages of 50 and 74, with those aged 75 and above able to request a home test kit by contacting the bowel cancer screening helpline.

John McCabe, the Medical Director of CMCA, emphasizes the importance of completing the FIT test promptly upon reception as it can identify cancer at an early stage. Although screening does not prevent bowel cancer, it remains the most effective method of detecting it early for timely intervention. The region witnesses approximately 2,000 bowel cancer diagnoses annually, with concerns rising over its prevalence among individuals in their 50s. There is no need for embarrassment in carrying out the test, as it is simple and quick, offering an opportunity to detect signs of bowel cancer preemptively.

Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health Liverpool, underscores the significance of residents taking charge of their health by completing and returning their bowel screening kit promptly. The low uptake of screening in the city is believed to contribute to a detection rate lower than anticipated, potentially linked to higher levels of deprivation. A patient representative, Steve Hollington, shares his experience of having his bowel cancer diagnosed through the testing program, stressing the pivotal role early detection played in saving his life and granting him additional years to live

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