Local charity aiming to break the 'taboo' surrounding Bowel cancer

A local charity is urging people to go to their GP if they feel something isn't right.

Bowel Cancer Isle of Man aims to raise awareness of bowel cancer, its symptoms and risks and provide support to those on Island affected.

Heather Norman, Trustee Director of the charity was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer more than 20 years ago.

Since, she's been working to raise awareness and improve treatment on Island.

Every year 2,500 younger people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK - this number is slowly increasing as more young people are engaging in lifestyle habits that increase their risk.

Further, approximately 25 people die from bowel cancer every year in the Isle of Man. 

The Island's Department of Health officially launched Bowel Cancer Screening in the Isle of Man for the first time on 1st July 2011.

The screening programme means all residents aged 60 - 75 receive a test kit by post every two years.

However, research suggests the age to begin screening people needs to be lowered, in Scotland it begins at 50.

Heather is encouraging people to listen to their bodies and speak to a doctor if they're worried:

Symptoms of Bowel cancer can include blood in your poo, unexplained weight loss, change in bowel habits and fatigue - although not everyone has symptoms. 

Though often thought to be a "taboo" subject, Heather thinks the tide is changing:

Fore more information, you can visit www.bowelcanceriom.org