Low screening uptake in Walsall raising Bowel Cancer concerns
Health professionals in Walsall are warning that low participation in bowel cancer screening programmes is putting lives at risk, as more patients are being diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease.
The concerns were highlighted during a Bowel Cancer Awareness Event held at the Hive Community Hub in Willenhall, where medical experts and campaigners gathered to promote early detection and improve public understanding of symptoms.
Late Diagnoses Increasing Risk
Consultants at the event revealed that a significant number of patients are arriving at Walsall Manor Hospital as emergency cases, often with bowel cancer already in its later stages.
Mr Muhammad Tayyab, Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, said that historically “four out of 10” bowel cancer patients in the area were presenting as emergencies—meaning conditions such as bowel blockages or perforations had already developed, drastically reducing survival chances.
“At that time, outcomes were among the worst in the country,” he said. “We reviewed our processes and realised we needed to engage with the community directly.”
While outcomes have since improved significantly—thanks to increased awareness and coordinated efforts by the hospital’s colorectal team—Mr Tayyab stressed that screening uptake remains a major concern.
“Less than 50 per cent of eligible people are taking part in bowel cancer screening. That is a dramatically low figure,” he said.
Importance of Early Detection
Experts at the event emphasised that early diagnosis is critical. When bowel cancer is detected at stages one or two, survival rates are close to 90 per cent. However, diagnoses at stages three or four carry a much poorer prognosis.
“The earlier diagnosis saves lives,” Mr Tayyab said. “We want to shift as many diagnoses as possible from late stages to early stages—that’s what will make the biggest difference.”
He also urged people to be aware of symptoms, which can include unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, bleeding, bloating, and abdominal pain—while noting that the disease can sometimes develop without noticeable signs.
Community Efforts to Raise Awareness
The monthly awareness event at the Hive—believed to be unique in the West Midlands—was launched two years ago by former councillor Ian Shires in partnership with Walsall Manor Hospital’s colorectal team.
Mr Shires, who represented Willenhall North on Walsall Council for more than four decades, shared his personal experience of surviving bowel cancer despite missing two screening tests. Now a patient advocate with the West Midlands Cancer Alliance, he uses his story to encourage others to take screening seriously.
He told attendees that cancer “isn’t the death sentence it used to be,” particularly when caught early.
Overcoming Fear of Screening
Another speaker, consultant surgeon Stephen Odogwu, addressed common reasons why people avoid screening.
“A lot of the time, people don’t take screening up because of fear,” he said. “Some people are uncomfortable with the nature of the test, while others are afraid of procedures like colonoscopies or even the possibility of a diagnosis.”
However, he reassured the public that such procedures are often far less uncomfortable than expected and that early detection offers the best chance of successful treatment.
“Bowel cancer is typically slow-growing,” he added. “If it’s picked up early, outcomes are much better.”
Call to Action
Health professionals are urging residents to complete and return their home testing kits and to contact their GP if they have any concerns or symptoms.
“The message is simple,” said Mr Tayyab. “Take part in screening, complete the test, and seek advice if needed. It could save your life.”
With continued community outreach and improved awareness, health experts hope to further reduce late diagnoses and improve survival rates across Walsall.