25 April 2023
The Health Services Directorate is offering free testing for bowel cancer for anyone aged 50-74 years over the next twelve months. The testing is being offered in age order.
From Monday, 1 May 2023, those who were born between 1948 and 1955 who wish to take the test can call Grace Richards or Anna Bowers on tel: 25818 who will arrange for a test sample kit to be made available to you.
Everyone offered a test is strongly encouraged to take one. Early detection through testing helps to ensure you stand the best chance of receiving successful treatment where needed.
If you are not sure whether you wish to take the test, we suggest that you request the home sample kit and read the materials that come with it before deciding if you wish to take it. The sample kit has full instructions on how to use it.
Results from your test will be provided within four weeks, and you may be called in to speak to a doctor about these if necessary.
If you have any questions about this campaign please call the Hospital by tel: 25888. Alternatively, please speak to your GP.
The Health Services Directorate will continue to call groups of people for testing in age order, and will publish a public announcement when the test kits for your age group are ready to be distributed.
Notes to Editor:
Bowel cancer is common on the Island and in most cases (9/10) is caused by polyps in the bowel. Bowel polyps are small growths on the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) or rectum. Bowel polyps are very common, and affect around 1 in 4 people aged 50 or over.
The Health Services Directorate can detect polyps by testing your poo for blood using a simple test. When detected early, bowel cancer survival rates are very high (around 90%), so getting tested is very important.
#StHelena #BowelCancer
SHG
25 April 2023