Response to a tragic death

The number of people checking bowel cancer symptoms on the NHS website increased 10fold after the death of Dame Deborah James.

Dame Deborah’s family confirmed the campaigner and podcaster died aged 40 after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016.

A statement released by her family said some of her final words were: “Check your poo – it could just save your life.”

The NHS has also urged people not to be “prudish about poo”, warning people are often embarrassed to talk about symptoms, which include changes in bowels habits, such as pooing more often than usual or a different consistency, pain in the tummy or abdominal pain that persists for more than a few days, unexpected weight loss and unexplained fatigue.

Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England, said: “People often don’t feel comfortable speaking about their cancer diagnosis and treatment, but Deborah bravely speaking out about her personal journey has prompted thousands more people to check the symptoms.

“There is no doubt about it – this has been lifesaving.

“We must now continue Deborah’s fantastic work in her honour.

“Talking about cancer saves lives, so our message to you is get checked out if you have worrying signs or symptoms.”

Cancer Research UK chief executive Michelle Mitchell said: “Dame Deborah James shared her story with the world to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis, break down barriers and challenge taboos around cancer.

“Deborah’s honesty and humour has changed the conversation around cancer and she’s undoubtedly had a huge impact on raising awareness.

“We saw an increase of 120% to our bowel cancer information pages the day after she passed away, compared to the day before.

“We hope that the impact of this increased awareness of the disease will be felt for years to come.

“It’s important that people contact their GP if they notice any changes to their body which aren’t normal for them.

“While most changes won’t be cancer, if it is, an early diagnosis can make all the difference.”

Health Secretary Sajid

Javid said: “Dame Deborah James has left an incredible legacy and changed the national conversation around cancer.

“These figures reflect the powerful and lifesaving impact she has had.

“Having lost my father to bowel cancer, I know how devastating this disease can be, and we must continue to break down barriers around what she called the ‘C word’ – encouraging people to have open and honest discussions.

“Our upcoming 10-year cancer plan will build on this with a focus on early diagnosis to help save more lives.”

The Scottish Public Health Observatory estimates that one in 16 men and one in 20 women in Scotland will develop bowel cancer during their lifetime.

CAMPAIGNER: Dame Deborah died of bowel cancer.