Bowel cancer is responsible for 16,000 deaths in the UK each year – the second most of any cancer. However, many of these deaths can be prevented if the cancer is detected in its earliest stage. Bowel cancer screening tests healthy individuals without symptoms to check whether they are displaying early signs of cancer. Detecting bowel cancer early not only increases the chances of survival but also helps to reduce the duration and invasiveness of any treatment required.
How to access this service
Bowel cancer screening is offered to all 60-74-year-olds registered with a GP Practice. A regional hub will send you a kit after your 60th birthday, which you can personally complete in the comfort and privacy of home. People aged 75+ won’t automatically be sent a kit but can opt in by calling the hub on 0800 707 60 60.
If the result is ‘normal’, you will be informed and a new kit will be sent two years later up until you turn 74. If the result is ‘abnormal’, one of our Specialist Screening Practitioners will discuss with you what happens next. It is likely you will be invited to attend hospital for further investigation – usually a colonoscopy. This procedure is carried out at an outpatient clinic, under sedation if you wish, and the findings will be given to you straight away. Irrespective of the findings, you will be fully supported throughout your entire treatment journey.
Of course, if you develop symptoms of bowel cancer, you should immediately arrange an appointment to see your GP. Symptoms can include: persistent changes to your bowel habit, lumps or persistent pain in your tummy and blood in your poo.
Opening times
Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm
How to find us
The Cheshire NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme is based at Leighton Hospital but covers the entire Cheshire region, working in partnership with hospitals and GP Practices across the county. Face-to-face clinics are held at Leighton Hospital in Crewe, the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester and Macclesfield District General Hospital in Macclesfield.
