Campaign to achieve earlier diagnosis for Bowel Cancer – 2010/11

The overall policy objective of the earlier diagnosis campaign is to improve the survival rates for bowel, lung and breast cancer in England.

There is evidence to suggest that poorer survival rates in this country are linked to later diagnosis.

Late diagnosis can be caused by a combination of factors. By raising awareness of symptoms of cancer and encouraging the public to visit their doctor with any persistent symptoms we will help deliver improved survival rates.

It is estimated that 10,000 lives could be saved each year if we matched the best survival rates in Europe, and so the ambition is to be as good as the best.

The DH/National Cancer Action Team work on earlier diagnosis covers two main strands – the first is around raising awareness of symptoms among the population and encouraging prompt presentation; the second is around supporting GPs in referring on appropriate patients, for diagnostic tests, through the urgent referral suspected cancer route or through standard referral processes.

The campaign programme is part of a broader range of work to improve cancer services and outcomes.  For example, in relation to bowel cancer survival rates, the actions include: extending the screening age to 75, introduction of flexible sigmoidoscopy screening at 55, promoting laparoscopic colorectal surgery, a training programme for lower rectal surgery and an enhanced recovery programme. 

 Further details are contained in the following documents

Bowel campaign summary guide