Bowel Cancer Guernsey handing out porridge

Friday was the charity’s fourth Fibre Friday, with volunteers from the charity taking to the streets of St Peter Port to hand out 250 bags containing cups of instant porridge, as well as information on how to reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer.

‘It’s the worst weather we have ever had for the event,’ said Dr Rachel Heath, one of the charity’s directors.

‘Unfortunately we are giving out some really soggy bags this morning.

'A big thank you to everyone who has stopped to listen to our message.

‘Oats are a great source of fibre, and along with a diet of fresh fruit and veg that encourages the microbiome in the gut, and reduces the chances of developing bowel cancer.’

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in Guernsey and there were more than 50 cases diagnosed locally each year between 2018 and 2020.

Currently islanders aged 60 to 70 are invited for bowel cancer screening every two years.

The screening simply involves collecting a stool sample at home and sending a tiny sample of it to the hospital.

The charity is now calling for the minimum age for screening to be lowered to 50.

Dr Heath added that unfortunately the island had seen an increase in younger people being diagnosed.

‘We really want to do all we can to reverse that,’ she said.

‘To reduce the chance of bowel cancer it is also important to cut down on the amount of ultra processed food consumed – things like ready meals and processed meats such as sausages.

‘We would also really encourage everyone eligible for the free test to make sure they send the samples back.’

However changing your diet is only one of the proven steps to reduce your risk of developing the disease.

‘We would also really encourage exercise,’ said Dr Heath.

‘Being active, stopping smoking and reducing alcohol intake all have a proven link to a reduced chance of ever getting bowel cancer.’

n For more information visit bowelcancerguernsey.org.gg.