Every year, almost 4,000 people are diagnosed with the disease. If bowel cancer is detected early enough through screening, there is a 90% chance of treating the disease successfully.For approximately every 650 people invited for regular screening, one bowel cancer death will be prevented. In Scotland this could mean the screening programme can prevent at least 150 deaths from bowel cancer each year (Scottish Government 2016).
The Outer Hebrides bowel screening campaign ran from 14th November 2017 – 17th November 2017.
With the assistance of GHEP/IBO team, the innovative Inflatable Bowel toured the Islands, with 6 events taking place over 4 days, covering the four main Island groups of the Outer Hebrides; Barra, Uist, Harris and Lewis.
The aims of the campaigns were to:
• Encourage an increase in bowel screening uptake
• Increase knowledge and understanding about bowel problems and screening
• Increase the proportion of people presenting early stage bowel cancer as a result of screening and an improvement in the HIS BS standard compliance
The objectives being to:
• Inform and empower people to talk about bowel cancer
• Educate the community about the screening test
• Encourage people within the screening age range across the Outer Hebrides to participate in the bowel screening programme by completing their test
• Ensure islanders are aware of the signs and symptoms that could indicate there is a problem with their bowel and empower them to see their GP for advice
Immediate results Although this campaign was primarily for bowel screening awareness, with the visitors walking and talking the journey through the Inflatable Bowel, we found that a number of health-related subjects were discussed once we opened dialogue, such as sex education, healthy diet and lifestyle for children (including the effects on teeth and bowel habits) and reducing the risks of cancer for the whole family.
A large number of medical and public health professionals also took the tour through the inflatable educational tool; ensuring that the information we were imparting was able to be passed on to those not able to attend this week and future actions encouraged going forward.
Short to long term results A number of adults who had previously not completed their bowel screening kits indicated that they will now be doing so. We will be seeking an increased uptake of bowel screening and early diagnosis.
Testimonials from visitors of the walk and talk tour through the Inflatable Bowel:
“Very reassuring that early detection can make such a difference to the outcome – very worthwhile event “
“Best cancer and general health awareness I have ever heard” – healthcare professional
“I learnt much more than expected. Brought home how you can take control of your body by looking after it.”
“Have heard some of the words and phrases but it is now good to know what they mean and that it (bowel cancer) can be prevented so easily”
“Useful to know that it is the changes in our own habits/ bodies that we have to be aware of”
“I learnt a lot - better watch what I drink when I’m off to Uni. Thanks”