TWO thirds of people in Bradford sent a bowel cancer screening test ignore it, putting their lives at risk.

According to figures from Bowel Cancer UK, on average only 35 per cent of people living in the city and 55 per cent living out in the districts who are sent the test for free in the post actually complete it.

The leading research charity is hoping by raising awareness, more people will take part in the screening programme as part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month this April.

The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme can detect bowel cancer at an early stage in people with no symptoms when it is easier to treat and a greater chance of survival.

Anyone registered with a GP and aged 60-74, will receive a test in the post every two years to carry out at home following step by step instructions. The test looks for hidden blood in your poo, which could be an early sign of bowel cancer.

In April alone across the UK, nearly 3,500 people will be diagnosed with bowel cancer and more than 1,300 people will die of the disease.

Bradford City’s uptake is the lowest in Yorkshire, the highest rates at 64 per cent are Whitby, Richmondshire and Hambleton, closely followed by Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven at 63 per cent - nationally the average uptake is 58 per cent.

Dr Ian Fenwick, clinical lead for cancer at the Bradford Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: “Our bowels may not be on the top of our list of things to talk about, but it’s important that we do. Screening plays an important part in the fight against bowel cancer, because the earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chance it can be cured completely.

“There are lots of things you can do to help reduce your risk of bowel cancer, like trying to maintain a diet high in fibre, for example by eating wholegrains such as brown rice and granary bread, and avoiding too many processed meats, such as ham, bacon and sausages.”

Symptoms of bowel cancer may include: abdominal pain, blood in your stools and/or a change in your normal bowel habit lasting three weeks or more. For more information go to bradford.gov.uk/health/improve-your-health/advice-about-cancer-screening/