By Talking Health TV –

Spotting the signs early could save lives – know the symptoms and spread the word

This April, Bowel Cancer UK and Kirklees Council is encouraging everyone to take part in the #PassItOn campaign, aimed at raising awareness about bowel cancer and the importance of early detection.

With more than 9 in 10 people surviving bowel cancer when it’s diagnosed at the earliest stage, spreading awareness could truly make a difference.

Know the Symptoms, #PassItOn

Kirklees Council is urging residents to familiarise themselves with the key symptoms of bowel cancer and to share this information with family, friends, and colleagues.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your GP without delay:

• Changes in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that’s unusual for you

• Needing to poo more or less often than usual

• Blood in your poo (it may look red or black)

• Bleeding from your bottom

• Feeling like you need to poo, even after going to the toilet

• Tummy pain or bloating

• A lump in your tummy

• Unexplained weight loss

• Feeling very tired for no reason

Even if you’re unsure, it’s important to speak to your GP and ask about an at-home test. Early action could be lifesaving.

Screening Saves Lives

The NHS offers regular bowel cancer screening to individuals aged 50 to 74, with a home testing kit sent every two years.

If you think you should have received a kit but haven’t, you can call the NHS on 0800 707 6060 to request one. Screening is one of the most effective ways to detect bowel cancer early.

Healthy Lifestyle, Lower Risk

While screening and symptom awareness are key, making healthy lifestyle choices can also help reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK recommends the following:

• Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Be physically active

• Avoid smoking

• Limit alcohol consumption

Share Your Story, Inspire Others

Personal stories have the power to educate and encourage. If you or someone you know has been affected by bowel cancer, consider sharing your experience as part of the #PassItOn campaign.

Your voice could help someone recognise the symptoms, book a screening, or feel less alone in their journey.

Add your experience to the #PassItOn Story Wall and use hashtags like #BowelCancerAwareness and #EarlyDetection to join the conversation online.

For more information and support, visit the Bowel Cancer UK website. Together, through awareness and action, we can help save lives.