Page updated: 21 Dec 2009
Take care of number one - check your number twos!
Trafford residents aged between 60 and 69 will be getting bowel cancer screening packs through the post in the coming weeks.
The packs are being sent out to people aged between 60 and 69 across the north west under a scheme by the Association of Greater Manchester PCTs called the Greater Manchester Bowel Cancer Screening Programme. It gives people the chance to complete a test in the privacy of their own home.
Around 80% of bowel cancers occur in people aged 60 and over and it can go unnoticed until it is advanced. However, if caught early, most bowel cancers can be successfully treated.
Written results are posted out within two weeks of the completed kit being returned. 98 in 100 people will receive a normal result after which invitations for bowel cancer screening are sent every two years until the age of 70.
Everyone who has an abnormal test result will be offered an appointment with a specialist nurse to discuss further investigations. Although the test kit does not diagnose cancer, it does show whether other investigations are needed.
Residents are being urged to take advantage of the screening packs and send their sample back.
Abdul Razzaq, Trafford PCT's Director of Public Health said: "These packs are a great way to check yourself for signs of bowel cancer. It is one of the most common cancers and will affect many of us in our lifetimes.
"The packs are easy to use and contain simple instructions – all you need to do is post your sample back in the pre-paid envelope and wait for your results.
"It is really important to take advantage of free NHS testing. Proactive screening programmes help catch cancers in their earliest stages, before people start to show symptoms. The earlier you catch a cancer the higher your survival chances are, so you should take this opportunity to make sure you are safe."
When bowel cancer is found early, about nine out of ten people can be cured.
Signs and symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- A persistent change in bowel habit for several weeks
- Bleeding from the back passage without any reason
- Severe pain in your abdomen
Distribution of the packs started in early December. If you are over 69, you won't automatically receive a screening test kit, but you can request one by calling 0800 707 6060.
Ends
For further press information, please contact:
Press Office at Trafford PCT
Tel: 0161 873 9622 / 0161 873 9527 / 0161 873 6048