NATIONAL BOWEL CANCER MONTH

Early day motion 1087, tabled 10 April 2002 by Ian Gibson (Labour). Signed by 75 members.

That this House recognises that April is National Bowel Cancer Month; notes that bowel cancer is the most common cancer in the UK among non-smokers and that someone in the UK is diagnosed with bowel cancer every 15 minutes; records its concern that 17,000 people a year die of the disease; notes that if bowel cancer is diagnosed early enough it can be successfully treated; urges people who are concerned about changes in bowel habit or rectal bleeding to see their GP; congratulates the 10 charities that work together on Bowel Cancer Forum on their efforts to raise awareness of bowel cancer and improve the treatment and support available to patients; applauds this example of voluntary sector collaboration and hopes to see more examples of charities working together towards a common goal; welcomes the patient parties being held at NHS hospitals throughout the country to consult with patients on how bowel cancer services can be improved; and calls on the Government to listen to what patients say.

Signatures by party: Labour 46, Liberal Democrat 15, Conservative 6, Labour/Co-operative 3, UUP 2, DUP 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1.