MSP shows support for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

The campaign from Bowel Cancer UK is urging people to take the test when they receive it in the post – highlighting the need for early detection.

Mr Stewart said: "As the local MSP, I am totally committed to improving uptake rates for bowel cancer screening, both locally and nationally.

"I would urge my constituents who are sent a bowel screening test to use it.

"Taking part in bowel cancer screening is the best way to get diagnosed early.

" If you are over 50, take the test when you receive it in the post.

"If you are younger, tell the people over 50 in your life to take the test. Early diagnosis really can save lives."

More than 1,500 people die from bowel cancer in Scotland every year and it is the country’s second biggest cancer killer.

However, it is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.

Bowel cancer screening can save lives but at the moment, in some areas of the country, only half of those who receive a test complete it.

Deborah Alsina, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, said: "I’d like to thank Alexander Stewart MSP for supporting our campaign during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month to raise participation levels for bowel cancer screening.

"In Scotland, one in 15 men and one in 19 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime but it is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early."

The Scotland Bowel Cancer Screening Programme can detect bowel cancer at an early stage in people with no symptoms, when it is easier to treat.

Those registered with a GP and aged 50-74 will receive a test in the post every two years.

They can carry it out at home in private and it comes with step by step instructions.

The test looks for hidden blood in your poo, which could be an early sign of bowel cancer.

Visit Bowel Cancer UK’s website to find out how to get involved in their campaign for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month: bowelcanceruk.org.uk