The Irish Cancer Society has warned Ireland is behind on bowel cancer screening targets.

Only 41% of people eligible for a screening participated last year, far below the EU recommended level of 65%.

The eligibility age range has now been expanded to include all people who are 59 to 70 - which means 48,000 more people can get checked.

Gastroenterologist Professor Barbara Ryan said it is vital for all those who are called to attend their screening. 

“Bowel screening detects people with no symptoms, diagnoses cancers and can find pre-cancer lesions also at a very early stage,” she said. 

“And that can really be life saving because the earlier a cancer is found, the better the survival rate.” 

Bowel cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in Ireland. Symptoms can be subtle and don't necessarily make you feel ill and although they are very common, you should talk to your GP if symptoms persist for more than 4 weeks. Learn more: https://t.co/sI8WTWY4Kz pic.twitter.com/d2VTvMQD9Z

— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) September 17, 2023

Around 2,500 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year and people who turn 59 can apply for inclusion on the bowel screening register, which means home screening tests will be sent out at regular intervals. 

If you believe you have symptoms of bowel cancer - such as changes in your poo or bleeding from your bottom - or have a family history of the disease, you should contact your GP.

Main image: A doctor holding a stethoscope. Picture by: Alamy.com