Bowel Cancer
The UK NSC policy on Bowel Cancer screening in adults
More Information
Colorectal cancer – commonly known as colon cancer, or bowel cancer – is any cancer that affects the last section of the digestive system. This usually means the colon (large bowel) or rectum (back passage).
Image © Clinical Skills Ltd and provided courtesy of Cancerbackup.
» Read more about bowel cancer on NHS Choices
» Read more about bowel cancer on Cancerbackup
Policy Position
Bowel cancer screening using testing for faecal occult blood (FOB) should be offered to people in their sixties, with those who are older entitled to request a kit.
Screening for bowel cancer using flexible sigmoidoscopy also meets the UK NSC criteria for a screening test. In England its implementation will be managed by the English cancer screening programme.
This policy was reviewed in Apr 2011 and significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2014/15, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Screening in the UK
Compare how screening is offered across the UK.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
See also the evaluation of the colorectal cancer screening pilot.
Screening for late onset genetic colorectal cancer - report of a workshop organised by the UK NSC.
Stakeholders
The Assocation of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland
Beating Bowel Cancer
Bowel Cancer UK
Bowel Cancer Wales
The British Association for Cancer Research
British Association of Surgical Oncology
British Society of Gastroenterology
Cancer Research UK
Lynn's Bowel Cancer Campaign
Macmillan
Medical Research Council
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Royal College of Surgeons
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
