Bowel Cancer UK reports that 29% of those eligible for bowel cancer screening do not complete the test, indicating nearly a third skip it. Regional disparities are stark: NHS Devon ICB recorded the highest participation rate at 76%, while NHS North West London ICB had the lowest uptake at 56%. All integrated care boards across Greater London fell below the national average for bowel cancer screening uptake.
Bowel cancer is the UK's fourth most common cancer, but screening is one of the best ways to spot the disease early or remove polyps that might develop into cancer. More than nine in 10 people survive bowel cancer when diagnosed at the earliest stage. Adults aged 50 to 74 in England are sent a home testing kit for bowel cancer screening as part of an NHS drive.
The faecal immunochemical test checks for tiny traces of blood in a stool sample. If no blood is detected, no further action is needed and patients are invited to repeat the test every two years. If blood is found, patients are typically referred for a colonoscopy.
Screening for bowel cancer was first introduced in England in 2006. The current FIT test replaced the older guaiac-based faecal occult blood test because it is more accurate at detecting tiny traces of blood. The NHS says symptoms of bowel cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, bleeding from the bottom, stomach pain, a lump in the abdomen, bloating, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or shortness of breath.
Risk of bowel cancer increases with age, particularly over 50, and is higher in people who smoke or are overweight. Experts say the risk can be reduced by eating a healthy diet rich in fibre, staying physically active, cutting back on alcohol, stopping smoking, and limiting red and processed meat.