Simple test saved my life, says bowel cancer survivor

"When I received my bowel cancer screening test through the post, I completed it straight away and I'm so glad I did."

Taras Daneliuk, 65, from Penwortham, said that decision ultimately saved his life.

The screening test detected a tumour before he had noticed any symptoms and subsequent investigations revealed cancer.

Within two months, Daneliuk underwent surgery at Royal Preston Hospital and, three years later, is cancer free.

"It only takes a few minutes to do, but it could make all the difference," he said.

"I think some people are frightened by the word 'cancer', but the earlier it is found, the more treatment options there are and the better the chances of a positive outcome."

Daneliuk's story is being highlighted as part of a Lancashire initiative aimed at increasing participation in bowel cancer screening, particularly among people who do not complete the test when first invited.

Researchers at the University of Lancashire evaluated the "Call for a KIT" programme, which offered non-responders the opportunity to speak to a health promotion worker in person or over the phone.

The study found tailored support helped boost screening uptake, leading to 1,608 additional test kits being returned that might otherwise have been ignored.

Dr Rebecca Jefferson, from the university's Health Technology Assessment Unit, said many people intended to take part in screening but faced barriers ranging from a lack of information to concerns about the test itself.

"The success of the Call for a KIT programme shows that a simple conversation can make a real difference," she said.

According to NHS figures, almost 85 million people have been screened through the programme over the past 20 years, helping to detect around 70,000 cancers.

The Lancashire findings will be shared with healthcare professionals on Wednesday.

Daneliuk said: "If I had ignored the test, who knows what might have happened? For me, completing that kit was a no-brainer and I'd encourage everyone who receives one to do it as soon as it arrives."

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