13
Aug 2019
New test leads to rise in bowel cancer screening rate
Recent figures have shown that a simpler new test for bowel cancer has resulted in a significant rise in screening rates in Scotland, and that for the first time uptake has risen to above 60%.
Rates of the disease in Scotland are amongst the highest in the western world, which result in around 1,600 deaths each year.
The Scottish screening programme for all adults aged 50 to 74 was introduced in 2007 and in the last ten years, incidences of and deaths from the disease have fallen in both women and men.
The new simpler test was rolled out in 2017 and in the two years since then, uptake has risen from 55.4% to 63.9%.
Cancer Research UK’s Gordon Matheson, said “This report is good news in that we’re seeing a significant rise in screening uptake in the first year since this test was introduced.
“Screening for bowel cancer saves lives, and the new tests has helped make it easier for people to take part. This is encouraging because detecting cancer at an early stage means it’s more likely to be treated successfully.
“To ensure the programme’s continued success as demand grows, the Scottish government must ensure that staff shortages in cancer services are addressed, particularly those who help detect cancer such as endoscopists and pathologists.”
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Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.
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