Hospital of Saint John and Saint Elizabeth - you are in good hands

Bowel Cancer Screening

Bowel cancer is the 2nd most common cause of cancer death in the UK with 32 – 34,000 new cases diagnosed and 19,000 deaths each year.

Many people are now aware that the high number of deaths is unnecessary and research has shown that screening can reduce risk factors and improve survival.

How common is bowel cancer?

• Age at diagnosis Incidence
• < 50 1 in 25,000
• 50 – 69 1 in 1000
• > 70 1 in 333

Who is considered at risk?

Anyone who fits any of the following:

• Rectal bleeding (back passage) with diarrhoea (loose stools for more than 6 weeks)
• Rectal bleeding without any symptoms in patients older than 45 years
• Alteration in bowel habit (diarrhoea or worsening constipation) for more than 6 weeks
• Unexplained anaemia (low blood count)
• Men with a haemoglobin (Hb) lower than11
• Females with a haemoglobin (Hb) lower than 10
• If a close family member has been diagnosed with bowel cancer
• Anyone over the age of 55 years

What does the screening process involve?

1. There is an initial consultation with a Consultant Coloproctologist (bowel cancer specialist) followed by a physical examination.
2. You will then be given a strong laxative to clear your bowels, followed by a telescope test of the rectum (colonoscopy).
3. Some patients prefer to have a mild sedative for this procedure.
4. Samples may be taken and sent for analysis.

The whole procedure is routinely very well tolerated and is undertaken as an extended outpatient / day stay depending on the individual.

Please be reassured that in the majority of cases the results will be negative and patients will require no further treatment.

In some cases patients will be more suitable to having their colonoscopy undertaken using CT scanning techniques and you should discuss this with your consultant at your appointment.

Screening has been proven to cause a major reduction in bowel cancer deaths through the identification ands successful removal of high risk polyps and early cancers.

It is well established that the earlier you present the better your chance of identifying early disease and thus beat one of the most leading causes of cancer death.

How to Access the Service

View full information of our Colorectal Services.

For an appointment with a Colorectal Specialist call us today on 020 7806 4060 or email us in confidence on info@hje.org.uk.

BUPA Accredited Colorectal Cancer Centre

Quick Links

Consult a Specialist

Physiotherapy

Health Screening

Birth Unit

Contact Us