Bowel Cancer is the one of the most common cancers in Ireland with 2,485 people diagnosed with the disease every year. In Cork alone, 302 people were diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2013.
Despite the high incidence of the disease, uptake of the national bowel screening programme, BowelScreen remains low at 40% among those eligible to participate.
Men and women in Ireland between the 60-69 years of age are currently invited to take part in BowelScreen.
The disease accounts for 1,000 deaths per year with almost 50% of all bowel cancer patients diagnosed at a late stage.
People between the ages of 60-69 years of age are invited to participate in BowelScreen by letter. Once they receive the letter, participation is confirmed by calling BowelScreen on Freephone 1800 45 45 45.
A test kit will then be sent in the post to the person’s home with simple instructions on how to do the test. Once the test is completed, it is sent back to BowelScreen in the Freepost envelope provided.
Concerned about bowel cancer? Then call the Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700 to speak to a cancer nurse who can offer information and support.
Visit www.cancer.ie/bowel for further information.
