Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Get the free app no ads · no paywall

Explained in plain English

What is bowel cancer screening?

Bowel cancer screening is a simple NHS test you do at home to check for early signs of cancer. Jane Short's story highlights its importance; if she had done her test earlier, her cancer might have been caught at a much less advanced stage. The test looks for tiny traces of blood in your poo, which can be a sign of polyps or cancer.

Stories that explain this

Mum Jane Short, 52, ignored bowel screening, later diagnosed with stage 4 cancer

Related explainers

How does the NHS offer screening? Why are screening rates low? What does 'stage 4' mean? What is bowel cancer? How common is early bowel cancer? Who gets screened for bowel cancer? Understanding cervical cancer screening What is aggressive cancer?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under B →