A Nottingham man says he is still alive because a home test kit helped him catch his bowel cancer early.
John Crouchley of Wollaton Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) After experiencing digestive issues and losing about 5 pounds (32kg) between April and September 2020.
The 71-year-old said taking a simple FIT test was the “turning point” that enabled doctors to catch his bowel cancer early, just before Christmas that year.
John’s early diagnosis is one the government hopes to replicate when it makes its announcement. national cancer strategywhich aims to reduce waiting times, improve outcomes, and speed up disease diagnosis.
Bowel cancer can begin in the colon or rectum and is also known as colorectal cancer. [Getty Images]
The NHS said it was “continuing to improve” early cancer diagnosis across England as part of the new NHS Cancer Plan.
The plan aims to carry out 9.5 million more tests and scans by 2029, increase the volume of precision robotic surgeries and treat rarer cancers such as brain tumors in specialized centers to improve outcomes.
Improvements include expanding genetic testing and providing all patients with customized support plans that cover treatment, mental health, and employment support.
Figures show 84% of people across the East Midlands who are invited to take part in bowel screening return an FIT test, confirming an early bowel cancer diagnosis.
The NHS said this was above the national target of 80%.
John said he visited his GP in September 2020 after his symptoms started to become “noticeable”.
“I started having diarrhea and stopped eating, but the symptoms gradually got worse and didn’t go away,” he said.
“I was weak and tired. Even though the room was warm, I was sometimes very cold. My wife and children were worried that I might not make it in time for Christmas.”
After seeing his GP, John underwent a FIT test and blood tests.
The FIT test is a non-invasive test that detects blood hidden in poop, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
After a FIT test “indicated concerns,” he underwent a chest X-ray and colonoscopy.
After being diagnosed with colon cancer, John underwent a series of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
“I would encourage anyone who is eligible to take the FIT test. It could save your life,” he said.
Dr Dave Briggs, executive director of outcomes for NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “Detecting and treating cancer early can increase people’s chances of survival.”
“We are also making cancer diagnosis more accessible than ever through the rollout of home screening kits such as the FIT test, mobile lung cancer screening units conveniently located in communities, and community diagnostic centres.”
Follow BBC Nottingham facebookabove ×,or Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via whatsapp Call 0808 100 2210.
More about this story
Related internet links