Russell George AM is supporting Bowel Cancer UK’s campaign to urge more people to take part in bowel cancer screening and save lives, as part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in April.
As Wales' second biggest cancer killer with 900 people dying of Bowel Cancer every year, Mr George is raising awareness of how bowel cancer screening can save lives.
Bowel cancer is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early but at the moment only half of those who receive a test complete it. Thousands of people are missing out on the chance to detect bowel cancer early when it is easier to treat.
Mr George said:
“I am totally committed to improving uptake rates for bowel cancer screening, both locally and nationally. I would urge the people who are sent a bowel screening test to use it. Taking part in bowel cancer screening is the best way to get diagnosed early. If you are over 60, take the test when you receive it in the post. If you are younger, tell the people over 60 in your life to take the test. Early diagnosis really can save lives.”
Deborah Alsina, Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer UK, added:
“I would like to thank Russell for supporting our campaign during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month to raise participation levels for bowel cancer screening. In Wales, one in 13 men and one in 18 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime but it is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.”
Visit Bowel Cancer UK’s website to find out how you can get involved in their campaign for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month: bowelcanceruk.org.uk.