"It’s free, it’s a simple test and it could literally save your life"
17.05.2022 - 14:55
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
When Helen, a 67 year old retiree from Bolton, returned her bowel cancer screening kit last summer, she expected the results to come back as normal, as they had in previous years. However, when she was contacted regarding an abnormal result in July, she soon found herself undergoing more tests.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in the UK, with more than 43,000 people diagnosed with the condition each year. Everyone living in England aged 60 to 74 who is registered with a GP is automatically sent a bowel cancer screening kit, every two years. The programme also includes 56-year olds.
Helen explained how the test was able to detect a problem before there were any signs. “Honestly I didn’t have any symptoms – I’m not one to shy away if something is wrong – I’d see someone about it.”
Despite having no obvious symptoms, Helen was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer and went on to have surgery to remove the tumour. She did not need require further chemotherapy and continues to have routine check-ups.
"When they first rang me (to tell me it was cancer), I did have a cry because it’s not what you want to hear, but in my case, they could do something about it because it was found early. I know not everybody’s outcome is the same but for me it’s been positive," Helen said.
"Within one month, I had surgery, which was successful and I recovered well. I did not need chemotherapy or radiotherapy. My six-monthly check up went well and as far as I’m concerned, it’s done, it’s gone and life’s good!
"I’ve nothing but praise for the whole programme. From start to finish they kept me informed, explained things thoroughly, there was someone there for me emotionally. The bowel cancer screening test is free, it’s a