The NHS is mailing bowel cancer test kits to nearly 1 million people to enhance early detection and save lives
London: The NHS is stepping up its game by sending out bowel cancer testing kits to folks aged 50 and 52. This is part of a big push to catch cancer early. By the end of March, around 850,000 people will get these kits in the mail.
If you’re 51 or 53, you’ll have to wait until your birthday, but don’t worry, you’ll still get a kit. Previously, the program was for those aged 54 to 74, but now it’s expanding to cover everyone from 50 to 74. This means more people can check for bowel cancer from the comfort of their homes.
The test is called the faecal immunochemical test (FIT). It’s pretty straightforward. You collect a stool sample at home and send it back in a prepaid envelope. Then, you’ll get your results along with info on what to do next if needed.
The NHS is really pushing for people to take this test. They found that less than 60% of those aged 54 to 57 actually do it, while over 70% of people aged 60 to 74 participate. Catching bowel cancer early can make a huge difference in survival rates.
Steve Russell from NHS England said that early detection saves lives. He’s excited about the expansion of the screening program, hoping it will help spot cancer signs sooner. So far, two-thirds of people have returned their tests, but they want to see even more participation.
He added that while taking a test might not be on your mind as the new year kicks off, it could really save your life. If you have a FIT kit lying around, send it back as soon as you can. Most people won’t have cancer, but if the test shows something, they can get further tests and treatment.
Professor Peter Johnson, another NHS expert, mentioned that bowel cancer cases are rising, especially among those in their 50s. He reassured everyone that the test is quick and easy, and it can catch signs of cancer early. If anyone has symptoms like blood in their stool or severe stomach pain, they should see their GP right away.
Data shows that about 2% of people who take the FIT test will need more tests. The screening program is for those aged 50 to 74, but anyone over 75 can request a kit by calling the NHS helpline.
This initiative comes on the heels of research indicating that drinking a glass of milk daily can reduce bowel cancer risk by nearly 20%. Researchers from the University of Oxford found strong evidence
