Croydon doctors urge residents to take part in screenings for third most common cancer in borough

Doctors are calling for residents to get help for symptoms of bowel cancer, to ensure early diagnosis and more successful treatment.

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and Croydon residents are being encouraged to contact their GP practice if they have symptoms that could be bowel cancer. 

The National Cancer Patient Experience Survey revealed that men, and people from black and Asian ethnic backgrounds, often wait more than three months to seek help for cancer symptoms, leading to late diagnosis. 

Dr Lavan Baskaran, GP at Addington Medical Practice and medical director at Croydon GP Collaborative (CGPC), said: “We understand that it can be awkward talking about your bowel movements, but we want the community to know that as GPs, we are here to support you. 

“Cancer affects all of us. Bowel cancer is often missed in routine consultations but if we can have the conversation and are even a little suspicious of cancer, we will always prioritise investigating, to reassure you or treat early”. 

In 2024, 1,688 people in Croydon were diagnosed with bowel cancer, which is the third most common cancer diagnosed in Croydon. 

The NHS bowel cancer screening programme can help with earlier diagnosis even before there are symptoms.

An at home test is now offered to everyone aged 50 to 74 every two years.

People registered with a GP practice will get the free test sent to their homes in the post. 

Dr Baskaran said: “The test is easy to use in the comfort of your home. Screening can detect hidden blood in your poo which can be an early symptom of bowel cancer. Bowel cancer screening helps saves lives.” 

As part of efforts to reduce the impact of bowel cancer in Croydon, the NHS is encouraging everyone over 50 to take part in screening when invited.

For more information search ‘NHS bowel cancer screening’

(Picture: Pexels/ Ivan Samkov)