Urgent cancer warning as NHS says 'don't put it off'

NewsHealthCancerDoing this could help detect one of the UK's most deadly cancers before you get symptoms11:26, 22 Jul 2026The NHS has issued an urgent cancer warning, telling people “don’t put it off”. Following this advice could help catch one of the UK’s deadliest cancers sooner rather than later.‌In a message posted to social media platform X, the NHS urged people to use a bowel cancer screening kit when it is sent out to them. The procedure involves collecting a small stool sample and posting it for laboratory analysis. Those registered with a GP receive a test automatically, referred to as a faecal immunochemical test (FIT), every two years. Your first kit arrives at age 50, 52 or 54, depending on your date of birth.‌‌The NHS explained: “The NHS bowel cancer screening kit can detect signs of cancer before you notice anything is wrong. They’re sent to everyone aged between 50 and 74.“If you’re sent one, put it by the loo. Don’t put it off.”If you believe you qualify for bowel cancer screening but haven't received an invitation or your testing kit, you can contact the bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 6060. You'll usually get the results of your bowel cancer screening home test (FIT kit) within two weeks after sending your poo sample but sometimes it can take longer.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentYou will get a letter telling you the results. If your result says you need further tests it means blood was found in your poo and needs to be investigated. You'll be invited to an appointment with a specialist nurse.Symptoms of bowel cancerThe NHS outlines the primary symptoms of bowel cancer as:Article continues belowChanges in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for youNeeding to poo more or less often than usual for youBlood in your poo, which may look red or blackBleeding from your bottomOften feeling like you need to poo, even if you've just been to the toiletTummy painA lump in your tummyBloatingLosing weight without tryingFeeling very tired or short of breath – these are signs of anaemia, which can be caused by bowel cancerConsult your GP if you've experienced any bowel cancer symptoms for three weeks or longer.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Fitness And HealthGood HealthHealthy LifestyleHealthy LifeHealthBowel cancerCancerNHS