Members of the City of Wolverhampton Council's Public Health team, the Black Country Integrated Commissioning Board and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust will be at the Health Hub in the Mander Centre, opposite Ryman, between 10am and 2pm to speak to people and answer any questions they may have. There will also be activities for children including colouring and a quiz.
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month has been reminding people of the importance of regular screening once they reach the age of 56.
Bowel cancer is very treatable but the earlier it is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. People whose cancer is diagnosed at an early stage have a much higher chance of successful treatment than those whose cancer has become more widespread.
The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme offers screening every 2 years to everyone aged 56 to 74 who is registered with a GP. Residents will automatically be sent an invitation, then their screening kit, so they can complete the test in the privacy of their own home, and the results will determine whether further tests are required.
It’s important that people aged 56 to 74 are registered with their GP – and have provided up to date contact details – to ensure they receive the invitation. Anyone who isn't registered with a GP can find out how to do so at GP services.
People who are eligible but have not received an invite are asked to call 0800 707 6060. People who are not eligible for screening, but have concerns that something is not quite right, should speak to their GP as soon as possible.
The risk of developing bowel cancer can be reduced by cutting down on red and processed meats, eating five or more portions of fruit and vegetables every day, keeping to a healthy weight, exercising regularly, stopping smoking and reducing alcohol intake.
For more information on bowel cancer screening, please visit Bowel cancer screening. To find out more about Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, which runs throughout April and is organised by the charity Bowel Cancer UK, please visit Bowel Cancer UK.
