NHS London launched a life-saving campaign to encourage Polish communities across London to take a free NHS bowel cancer screening test to see if they may have bowel cancer.

“A home test kit is a safe way to test. You can do it at home, in an intimate and comfortable atmosphere,” – Professor Brian Saunders, consultant gastroenterologist at St Mark’s Hospital, assured. 

Despite today's wet weather, the outreach team from #NHS London's Bowel Cancer Screening campaign made it to #Croydon to talk to residents, community groups, businesses and religious organisations about the importance of early testing. https://t.co/nIugiKNp82 pic.twitter.com/nC8xAxtBFT

— Your Croydon (@yourcroydon) September 23, 2022

He explained that a bowel cancer screening “can help prevent or detect bowel cancer at an early stage when it is easier to treat.” 

“Those who have had bowel cancer screening are 25% less likely to die from bowel cancer […] That is why the NHS is sending free bowel cancer screening kits for home use. They are intended for asymptomatic people, and most people do not require further testing. So if you get the kit, make it,” – Professor Saunders encouraged. 

Another London specialist, Dr Pucek, praised the campaign. “I urge the Polish community to take the test as soon as it receives it. It’s free, simple, and non-invasive, only takes a few minutes but can save your life,” – he insisted. 

Health professionals agree on the fact that early detection can prevent the loss of a loved one. They underline that getting a bowel cancer screening test is easy, free, and can be done at home. 

You can find all the necessary information about the NHS free bowel cancer screening kit are to be found here. 

Image: NHS

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen