GPs and pharmacists throughout Sussex are supporting a major campaign aimed at tackling bowel cancer.
The campaign, launched today (30 January), gives simple information about bowel cancer symptoms and encourages people to visit their doctor if they have ‘loose poo’ or ‘blood in poo’ for more than three weeks.
Dr Gabriel Scally, Director of Public Health for NHS South of England, said: “Although the great majority of those presenting with these symptoms will not have bowel cancer, some will – and early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment.
“A pilot of this campaign was run in the East of England and the South West last year and it was very successful. There was a significant increase in the number of people being referred by their GP to a hospital consultant and a consequential increase in the number of people being tested for bowel cancer.”
Dr. Rob Deery, GP Executive Lead for Sussex Cancer Network, said:
“Many people believe if you have bowel cancer there is no hope. In my experience it doesn’t have to be this way - bowel cancer can be treated.
“It’s important for people to be aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer. If you have blood in your poo or looser poo for three weeks or more, then see your GP.
“I have seen patients that have left worrying symptoms for months and when they visit me it’s too late. But I also have lots of stories of people that have come to see me at the first sign of a problem and they go on to have successful treatment for their bowel cancer.
“It’s very straightforward for your GP to examine you and determine whether to send you for further tests. If your GP suspects it might be bowel cancer you will see a specialist within two weeks and they will then arrange for further tests and, if necessary, treatment. You will either get reassurance that it isn’t bowel cancer, or you will find out it is and have a better chance of survival. Go with your instincts, if you are worried then see your GP.”
Dr Linda Garvican from the Sussex Cancer Network added:
"Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in England. In Sussex alone there are 1100 new cases a-year and around 420 deaths. Lives could be saved if people were aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, as finding it early improves the chances of successful treatment. We believe that this campaign will play a key role in saving lives by encouraging people to see their GP if they experience symptoms of bowel cancer.”
Media and bus advertising, leaflets and displays will be promoting the message throughout Sussex up until the end of March. There will also be a number of events located in shopping centres, Mecca Bingo halls and pharmacies.
For further information about the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, please visit www.nhs.uk/bowelcancer
ENDS
Notes to Editor
For further information or to arrange an interview please contact Jamie Whitburn at NHS Sussex on 01273 403595 or Jamie.whitburn@esdwpct.nhs.uk .
Your four local NHS primary care trusts (PCTs) have joined forces to become NHS Sussex. The Sussex PCT Cluster represents NHS West Sussex, NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald, NHS Hastings and Rother, and NHS Brighton and Hove.
NHS Sussex is committed to commissioning high quality healthcare services for the people of Sussex. We also support our emerging clinical commissioning groups as they prepare to take on commissioning responsibilities in the future, as well as maintaining relationships with partner organisations.
