HEALTH bosses are encouraging Barnsley residents to have their cancer screening test.
Everyone aged 56 to 74 and registered with a GP in the borough is sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit every two years.
The kit can detect signs of cancer before people notice something is wrong.
Nine out of every 5,000 people who use their test kit turn out to have cancer.
But if it’s spotted early, the chances of recovering from bowel cancer are higher.
Health bosses are urging those who receive the kit to take the test.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire ICB said: “The test can be done in the comfort of your home and only needs a tiny sample to test for signs of cancer.
“So, keep an eye out for your bowel cancer testing kit in the post, or dig out the one that you put away in that drawer and forgot about. And then put it by the loo.
“People aged 75 and over can request a kit by phoning the NHS bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60. Don’t put it off. The South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Cancer Alliance is also urging people seek advice from their GP if they notice anything unusual which could be an early sign or symptom of cancer.”
