Derry woman is face of new bowel cancer screening campaign

A member of a Derry cancer support group is the face of a new campaign to encourage people to take part in the home-based bowel screening initiative.

People across the North aged between 60 and 74 receive a home test in the post every two years that uses a small poo sample to detect bowel cancers at an early stage.

However, not everyone chooses to the complete test, despite the fact that cancer treatment is more successful when it is started at an earlier stage.

The ‘Do it, Don’t Dump It’ campaign, which will run throughout the Moor Ward area (Bogside, Brandywell, Creggan, Fountain and Bishop Street) this month, is aimed at encouraging residents to take the test.

The campaign is a collaboration between Hive Cancer Support and the Public Health Agency’s ‘Live Better’ campaign.

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Hive Cancer Support have created a leaflet and billboard to explain why the test is so important and how quick and easy it is to complete.

The leaflets will be distributed through GP practices and pharmacies across the Moor Ward and Hive Cancer Support will also be hosting awareness stalls at GP practices to answer any questions people may have.

Hive Cancer Support Project Manager, Maureen Collins, said choosing Angela O’Donnell to front the short film, billboard campaign and education leaflet will ‘make the message more relatable’.

“Angela is from Bishop Street and a well-known face in the local community so we knew she’s be ideal for the role and she also has a great presence on screen.

“There can be reluctance from some people to take the bowel screening test, due to misconceptions, fear, or lack of awareness so we want them to know how easy it is and why it’s so important.

“Using a recognisable face it makes the message more relatable.”

Angela said she’s been bowled over by the reaction to the campaign.

“As cancer thriver myself I’m passionate about early detection,” she said.

“The reason for that is that when bowel cancer is detected early, more lives can be saved.

“My neighbour told me he saw the film online and contacted his brother to encourage him to take the test, so we can already see that it’s having an impact.”

Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in Northern Ireland, but research shows that when detected early, the chances of successful treatment and survival increase significantly.

“We cannot underestimate how crucial early detection is when it comes to bowel cancer,” said Maureen Collins.

“The screening kit is easy to use at home, and it could save your life. Too many people are unaware that this simple test exists, and we need to change that. A small step could mean a huge difference in someone’s future.”

While many people feel uneasy at the thought of completing the screening, the ‘Do it Don’t Dump It’ campaign will educate the public on the importance and simplicity of the process.

The bowel screening test is discreet, can be done at home, and involves collecting a small sample to send for testing.

“We’ve heard a lot of concerns from people who feel embarrassed or unsure about the process,” continued Mrs Collins. “But the truth is, this test is a proactive measure, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. It could potentially save your life.”

Hive Cancer Support has been a vital resource for those affected by cancer across the North West and on both sides of the border.

With a focus on providing emotional support, practical advice, and information on the various types of cancer, the charity is committed to spreading awareness about life-saving measures such as bowel cancer screening.

“Taking part in the screening programme could be the most important decision you ever make for your health,” Mrs Collins concluded. “It’s a small commitment with huge potential benefits, and it’s something that we at Hive Cancer Support are passionate about seeing every eligible person take advantage of.

“If anyone has any questions they can give our team a call on 02871 414 004 or 07710025494 or pop in to our Creggan Hub which is open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Thursday and 9am to 3pm on a Friday.”

Hive Cancer Support will also be hosting an awareness stall Oakleaf & Park Medical Practice on Friday April 18th and Friday April.

If you have received a home bowel screening test in the past & mislaid it you can order a new test for free by contacting the PHA on 0800 015 2514.