As we go in to full-blown summer (fingers crossed), let’s take a look at the end of spring to see all that’s been happening in the world of bowel cancer screening!
Bowel cancer has been very prominent in the news this month. First up, we have the tweet-worthy headline; Scientists use space tech to detect bowel cancer. This Reuters video shows how AI in space satellites can analyse live video feeds of endoscopy to spot and analyse polyps. It sounds very futuristic and exciting, but this practise becoming a wide-spread norm would probably be years away.
It has been revealed that screening uptake rates across England have been missed, for all cancers. This news shows that as a nation we are not taking screening seriously, even though the benefits of early detection and peace of mind cannot be overstated. Our work in health promotion and awareness is cut out as we need to work with people from all backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles to understand the importance of screening.
2 studies were released this month which had found that bowel cancer rates were rising, particularly in age groups not typically associated with the disease such as those between 20 and 39. Although the incidence of bowel cancer in this age group is low relative to other age groups, the rise is still concerning. It is stated that this rise may be due to increase in risk factors such as obesity and poor diet.
This month we were also awarded a certificate of recognition from the British Society of Gastroenterology! This is to recognise our work in the area of improving screening uptake. We’re extremely proud of our award as we work not only to increase screening uptake, but also to increase awareness of bowel cancer and break down barriers which prevent so many people from seeking medical help.
We’ve been busy with a number of community events this month too! We had set up a table at the Wembley Practice in order to reach out to patients as well as giving talks at the Brahmin Society of North London, and attending the Hillingdon Carers MOT day. Don’t believe us? Just check out the pictures below!
If you too would like us to speak to your patients, members or community in North-West London then please get in touch by emailing Sameer.choglay@nhs.net or calling 0208 869 3376. Thanks for making it all the way to the end, go ahead and have yourself a barbecue, you’ve earned it! (Just take it easy on the red and processed meat 🍖)