Ken Wright
HSE Bowel Cancer Awareness
By Ken Wright and HSE
13, Jun 2010 - 09:58

April was identified as Bowel Cancer Awareness Month by the Irish Cancer Society, and in recognition of this the Department of Surgery at Mayo General Hospital hosted a Public Information Evening on Bowel Cancer in Days Hotel Castlebar.  The aim of the information evening is to raise awareness around the issue of bowel cancer, and to highlight areas such as the early signs and symptoms of bowel cancer.

Medical staff from the Department of Surgery at Mayo General Hospital and invited guest speakers will give presentations on topics such as:  

• Symptoms
• Investigation process
• Surgery
• Treatments
• Oncology and radiotherapy treatments available
• Enhanced recovery

Pictured at he Public Awareness Meeting on Bowel Cancer which was held in Days Hotel Castlebar, l-r; Mr Ronan Waldron, Surgeon, Dr. Cormac Small, Consultant Radiotherapist, Mr Joseph Garvin, Specialist Registrar, Marian Martyn, Nurse, Dr. Greg Leonard, Consultant Oncologist and Mr Kevin Barry, Surgeon. Photo © KWP studio 094.

According to the Irish Cancer Society, the latest data from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland shows that there were 2,216 new cases of bowel cancer diagnosed in 2008. Fifty-five percent of these patients were diagnosed at a more advanced stage of the disease requiring more complex treatment and care, which in turn has an impact on survival. Ireland has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates for the disease in Western Europe. In 2008, the Central Statistics Office recorded 966 deaths from bowel cancer.

Anyone with concerns about bowel cancer can contact the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700. The Helpline is staffed by specialist cancer nurses who can speak in confidence to anyone concerned about bowel cancer.

Pictured at the Public Awareness Meeting on Bowel Cancer which was held in Days Hotel Castlebar, Part of the large number of people who attended the meeting. Photo © KWP studio 094.