Healthcare professionals in Walsall are raising alarms over the low uptake of bowel cancer screening, which could be costing lives. Despite the simplicity and potential life-saving benefits of these tests, fewer than 50% of people in certain areas are returning their bowel cancer screening kits.
The concern was highlighted at a Bowel Cancer Awareness Event held at the Hive Community Hub in Willenhall. Organised by former councillor Ian Shires and the colorectal team at Walsall Manor Hospital, the event aims to educate the community on recognising symptoms, understanding the importance of early diagnosis, and encouraging participation in screening programmes.
Mr. Shires, who overcame bowel cancer after initially missing two screening tests, shared his personal experience to stress that cancer is no longer the inevitable death sentence it once was. Now serving as a patient advocate for the West Midlands Cancer Alliance, he urged attendees not to avoid screening.
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Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon Dr. Muhammad Tayyab explained the urgency: “In Walsall, a significant proportion of patients come to hospital with advanced bowel cancer. About 40% are diagnosed only after emergencies like blockages or perforations, which severely reduces their survival chances.”
This worrying statistic prompted the local healthcare team to engage more actively with the community. Thanks to their efforts, Walsall now boasts one of the best bowel cancer outcomes in the country. However, Dr. Tayyab pointed out that screening uptake remains alarmingly low, under 50%. This gap means many people risk late diagnosis when treatment is less effective.
Early diagnosis truly saves lives. When bowel cancer is caught in its first or second stage, survival rates approach 90%. But in later stages three and four, the chances of a cure drop significantly. The goal is to shift diagnoses to these earlier stages by increasing screening participation and prompt GP consultations when symptoms arise.
Not all bowel cancer causes obvious symptoms, but signs such as unexplained weight loss, persistent changes in bowel habits, bleeding, abdominal bloating, or pain should trigger a medical review. Dr. Tayyab emphasizes: “Complete the screening test when it’s offered, return the kit, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.”
Consultant Surgeon Stephen Odogwu addressed common fears around screening. “Many people are reluctant due to embarrassment handling stool samples or anxiety about procedures like colonoscopies. The reality is colonoscopies are generally not as painful or uncomfortable as people imagine. Fear of a cancer diagnosis also holds many back, but bowel cancer typically progresses slowly, and catching it early offers the best chance for successful treatment.”
Increased awareness, community engagement, and dispelling myths around screening could save many more lives across Walsall. The message is clear: take the test, seek help early, and protect your future health.