A National Bowel Screening Programme aimed at detecting early signs of bowel cancer has treated eight people for the disease and prevented future cancers in the lives of more than 100 people in Hawke's Bay
Screening hailed as lifesaving for patients
Eight people referred for colonoscopy were diagnosed with bowel cancer.
Arnold said people diagnosed with early stage bowel cancer, and who receive treatment early, have a 90 per cent chance of long term survival.
However, despite the bowel cancer screening programme being free for eligible residents, Arnold said more than 2000 people who received pre-invitation letters chose not to participate in the free programme.
"We really want to continue to raise the awareness of how simple and easy these test kits are to use, and how important it is to take part, whilst also raising awareness of bowel cancer symptoms."
Currently, the disease kills more than 1200 people each year. One in 16 males and one in 21 females will experience bowel cancer by the age of 75 in New Zealand.
"Anyone with symptoms such as bleeding from the bottom or blood in their poo, a change in bowel habits lasting more than six weeks, stomach pain which can be severe, any lumps or mass in your tummy or weight loss and tiredness, should see their doctor," Arnold said.
Anyone wishing to contact the bowel screening programme can call 0800 924 432 or visit www.timetoscreen.co.nz for more information.
June is Bowel Cancer New Zealand's awareness month, called Move Your Butt. For more information visit: www.bowelcancernz.org.nz