Staff at Bodmin’s NHS Treatment Centre have joined the fight to raise funds for, and awareness of, bowel cancer.

As well as their day-to-day role in diagnosing and treating the disease, the staff took time out to raise money for the charity Beating Bowel Cancer.

They were joined by South East Cornwall MP, Sherryl Murray.

As part of its work, the charity Beating Bowel Cancer works to encourage people to take part in a NHS screening programme for people aged between 60 and 74.

Patients in this age group who are registered with a GP are sent a test kit to collect stool samples. These are then returned for testing.

The screening programme is said to be vital in spotting early warning signs of bowel cancer with around 2% of participants needing further testing.

The Treatment Centre carries out a range of procedures related to bowel cancer, including endoscopies for patients suspected of having the disease.

Centre Manager Jeanette Mercer commented: “We see patients affected by bowel cancer every day, but it’s still a disease with a low profile. As with all cancers, the earlier it’s diagnosed and treated, the better the prospects for the patient. So awareness of the disease, and funds for charities working in this area are vital. We’re delighted that Sherryl Murray was able to get involved.”

For more information on the Beating Bowel Cancer charity, visit www.beatingbowelcancer.org, or for information on the work of the Bodmin Treatment Centre, visit www.bodmintreatmentcentre.co.uk

ENDS

Caption:

Pictured are staff at the treatment centre, with (front left) Centre Manager Jeanette Mercer and (front right) MP Sherryl Murray.

Notes to editors:

For further media information, images or interviews, contact Tim Bowcock at Black Cat Public Relations on 01872 306403.

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