Allan Dorans, MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock says he is committing his support to Bowel Cancer Awareness Month this year.

Mr Dorans is working with Bowel Cancer UK to improve early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care both in Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock and nationally.

New findings released by Bowel Cancer UK for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month have revealed that more than four in ten (45 per cent) people in the UK cannot name a single bowel cancer symptom.

Early diagnosis is essential to improving bowel cancer outcomes and being able to recognise the symptoms and speaking to your GP when you feel something isn’t right, could save your life.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK with nearly 43,000 people diagnosed every year. That means every 15 minutes someone is diagnosed with the disease.

Sadly, more than 16,500 people die from the disease each year, making it the UK’s second biggest cancer killer but it shouldn’t be as it’s treatable and curable especially if diagnosed early.

The symptoms of bowel cancer can include; Bleeding from your bottom and/or blood in faeces; A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit; Unexplained weight loss; Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason; A pain or lump in your tummy.

Dr Lisa Wilde, Director of Research and External Affairs at Bowel Cancer UK, comments: “Bowel cancer remains the UK’s second biggest cancer killer, and it’s shocking that people aren’t aware of the symptoms to look out for.

“We’re delighted to have the support of Allan, who will help raise awareness of bowel cancer in Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock.

“If you notice any signs of bowel cancer, or if things just don’t feel right for you, please visit your GP.”