People in 50s urged to complete bowel cancer screening
The NHS is urging people in their 50s to complete bowel cancer screening kits after data showed low participation rates in this age group. Early detection through at-home testing is emphasized as a life-saving measure.
Why it matters
Public health initiatives rely on high participation rates to effectively reduce mortality from common cancers through early intervention.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Free test kits are sent to people aged 50 to 74 every two years
The NHS has urged people in their 50s to test for bowel cancer in response to "low numbers" taking part in screening.
Official figures from NHS England suggest a little over half of 54-year-olds completed at-home testing kits last year, compared to 74% of those aged 70 to 74.
"Bowel cancer can develop without any symptoms, but catching it early saves lives," NHS national clinical director for cancer Prof Peter Johnson said.
Free home-testing kits are sent to all 50 to 74-year-olds every two years in England, Wales and Scotland.
Northern Ireland sends free tests to people aged 60 to 74 who are registered with a GP, though health officials are looking at expanding screening to younger age groups.
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