Take bowel cancer test, MP urges Buddies

Gavin Newlands MP has pledged to help a charity raise awareness of screening during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in April.

Mr Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, is supporting Bowel Cancer UK’s campaign to urge more people to take part in screening and save lives.

More than 1,500 people die from the condition in Scotland every year and it’s the country’s second biggest cancer killer.

However, it shouldn’t be. It’s treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.

Bowel cancer screening can save lives but, at the moment, in some areas of the country, only half of those who receive a test complete it.

Thousands of people are missing out on the chance to detect the illness early, when it is easier to treat.

Mr Newlands said:“As the local MP, I am committed to improving uptake rates for bowel cancer screening, both locally and nationally.

“I would urge my constituents who are sent a test kit to use it.

“Taking part in this is the best way to get diagnosed early. If you are over 50, take the test when you receive it in the post. If you are younger, tell the people over 50 in your life to take it. “Early diagnosis really can save lives.” Deborah Alsina, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, said it is great to have Mr Newlands’backing.

She added:“In Scotland, one in 15 men and one in 19 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime but it is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.”

The Scotland Bowel Cancer Screening Programme can detect the condition at an early stage in people with no symptoms when it is easier to treat.

If you’re registered with a GP and aged between 50 and 74, you will receive a test in the post every two years.

It is very simple to do and is carried out by yourself in your own home in private and it comes with step-by-step instructions.

The test looks for hidden blood in your poo, which could be an early sign of bowel cancer.

● Visit Bowel Cancer UK’s websitewww. bowelcanceruk.org.uk for more.