Bowel cancer awareness campaign launched

The Government is today launching a new ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign across the North West to raise awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer.

Public awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer is low. But spotting the signs early and getting medical advice could save people’s lives.

Bowel cancer affects 33,000 people every year in England with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 55. It affects both men and women and is the second biggest cancer killer, responsible for more than 13,000 deaths a year.

In 2008 there were over 4,500 cases of bowel cancer in the North West alone.

Featuring real GPs, the ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ bowel cancer campaign aims to encourage people who have had blood in their stools or loose stools for more than three weeks to see their doctor. The adverts aim to make people aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer and make it easier for them to discuss this with their GP.

If England’s bowel cancer survival rates matched the best in Europe an additional 1,700 lives would be saved every year.

Care Services Minister Paul Burstow said: “No one likes talking about their poo – it’s embarrassing. But bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer so we need to get over the embarrassment and talk to someone about it.

“The “Be Clear on Cancer” campaign uses simple messages to make people aware of the key symptoms of bowel cancer and to give them the confidence to talk to their GP if they notice the symptoms.

“No matter how embarrassing it is, talking to your GP can help save your life.”

Dr Ann Hoskins, Interim Director of Public Health for the North West, said: “With bowel cancer claiming around 1,800 lives in the North West each year, this campaign is instrumental in raising awareness of the early signs and symptoms and potentially saving lives in the region.

“I urge anyone who is worried about their symptoms to speak to their GP straight away.

“The message is clear - the earlier bowel cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. Your symptoms may be nothing serious, but it is better to have them checked out early to be sure."

More than 90 per cent of people diagnosed with bowel cancer at an early stage survive for at least five years compared with only six per cent of those diagnosed at a late stage.

For further information about the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer visit www.nhs.uk/bowelcancer