Heather Barron lost both of her parents to bowel cancer so, when she received a call-up to be screened for the disease, she didn’t hesitate

ABOUT a month ago, I got an invitation through the post to attend an NHS bowel scope screening at Bishop Auckland Hospital.

I had heard about a variety of campaigns to raise awareness of bowel cancer and, as I was a colon cancer orphan, I applauded them.

Both my parents died from that awful disease – my dad at the age or 42 and my mum 18 years later while still a sprightly 62-year-old. In a panic after my mum’s death, and with young children to worry about, I’d had a routine colonoscopy to check for any pre-cancerous indicators, and was also tested for genetic markers.

Fortunately, the colonoscopy was clear, and there was no genetic marker found to suggest that I might have a pre-disposition to the disease.

Since then, I have heeded general medical advice and have a quick look in the loo after a poo to check that there’s no evidence of blood or other unusual signs that might need attention. When you’ve watched both parents die of the same – very preventable – disease, you do tend to be extra cautious.

So, although I didn’t much relish the procedure, I was glad to receive my bowel screening call-up, which came with a detailed booklet explaining the reason for the test and what would happen.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK and is more prevalent in older people. This mass screening programme is being gradually rolled out to all GP practices in the region and is being offered to all men and women aged 55. For every 300 people screened, it prevents two from getting bowel cancer and saves one life.

If you have already had your call-up, but, for whatever reason, you’re ignoring it or thinking, ‘No-one’s putting a camera up my bum!’ — I want to reassure you – it’s a simple, quick procedure that is only slightly uncomfortable, but hugely important.

A couple of weeks before the screening, I received a ‘home enema’ to use to clear my bowel prior to the screening. I know – another ‘I’m not doing THAT!’ moment – but it couldn’t be more simple. The instructions are clear and straight forward, and it’s all done in the privacy of your bedroom or bathroom about an hour before you go to the hospital.

I was worried about actually driving myself to the hospital afterwards in case I was ‘caught short’ along the way but there was no problem. Once everything was clear at home, I drove to the hospital without incident.

I filled in a short health questionnaire on arrival, and then one of the lovely Specialist Screening Practitioners took me to a room to talk it through.

One real concern I had was the thought that my bum would be on show throughout – and let’s be honest, doesn’t everyone’s bum look big sticking out the back of a hospital gown? No need to worry, though. I was shown into a cubicle to change into the latest hospital fashion – the standard gown and dressing gown, and a very interesting pair of big paper shorts with a strategically placed slit in the back.

In the procedure room another lovely SSP reassured me and instructed me to lie on my left side, with my knees up towards my chest. In front of me was a television screen so I was able to watch the progress of the camera through my bowel if I wanted to. You don’t have to, but it might be the only opportunity you get to see yourself on television!

The nurse consultant explained that she was going to look at my large bowel, and then she quickly applied a good dollop of lubricant before inserting the long tube-like camera.

I couldn’t resist watching the TV screen. It helps to distract from what’s happening below, and I have to say that, while it was a slightly odd sensation, there was only minor discomfort (mainly when gas was pumped into the colon to expand it for a better look), and it was all over very quickly.

Once I was dressed, the SSP went through the results with me – all clear, I’m pleased to report.

Throughout, every member of staff was professional, kind and helpful. They are specially trained and while it was a routine medical procedure for them, it wasn’t made to feel uncomfortable, or in any way embarrassing for me.

Appointments are deliberately arranged out of working hours to encourage more people to attend. However, some people don’t turn up.

If you haven’t had the letter yet, but are worried about any change in your bowels, don’t wait – go and see your doctor.

But if you have had the call-up and are nervous about attending, please — for your own sake and the sake of your family — go and have it done. It might save your life.