Saints Legends back NHS bowel screening campaign
A number of former Saints players are backing a new NHS bowel cancer screening campaign urging people aged 50 to 74 to complete their home testing kits, as almost one in three eligible people still do not return the potentially life-saving test.
Former Saints players James Beattie, Mark Dennis, Jason Dodd, Pele, Glenn Cockerill, Jo Tessem, Mark Barrett and Ken Monkou gathered at a recent Saints Legends football match against Winchester City FC, where they discussed the importance of early detection.
Mark Barrett said: “If you’re the same age group as me – 50 to 74, and you receive a bowel screening test kit, get it done please, it’s imperative. It doesn’t take long, and it could well save your life.”
Ken Monkou said: “If you’ve received your home kit, please use it. I’ve done mine, and it makes a difference. Bowel screening saves lives.”
The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme is available to everyone aged 50 to 74. Eligible people receive a free Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit through the post every two years. The simple test can be completed at home using a small sample of poo and helps identify signs of bowel cancer before symptoms develop.
Matt Hayes, Medical Director at Wessex Cancer Alliance, said: “The bowel screening test is quick, hygienic and can be completed in the privacy of your own home. Screening saves lives, and we want everyone who receives a kit to take a few minutes to complete it and send it back."
Dr Richard Roope, GP Lead at Wessex Cancer Alliance, said: "Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, but when it is found early it is much easier to treat, and more likely to be cured. Bowel screening uptake is at record high levels, but the lowest uptake is with those aged 50 to 59, so we are particularly keen to encourage people in this age group to return their kits.”
Most people who complete the FIT test will receive a normal result. However, screening can identify changes that may need further investigation, often before symptoms appear. The test can also help spot changes that can be treated and prevent cancer from developing. Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with almost 43,000 people diagnosed each year. It is also the second biggest cause of cancer death, accounting for more than 16,000 deaths annually.
For more information about bowel screening and support with completing your test, click here.
The Saints Legends also feature in a promotional film to launch the campaign.
