Colon screening

A chara, – I read with concern the article “New measures to tackle alarming rise in gastrointestinal cancers among 25-50 age group’” (Health, April 6th).

Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer death in Ireland, with 2,700 people diagnosed annually.

It’s disconcerting to know free colonoscopies are offered in other countries far earlier than in Ireland.

Regular screening is the key to early detection. The US Preventative Services Task Force recommends adults be screen for colorectal cancer from age 45.

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In 2021, the UK lowered the eligible age for free colon screening from 60 to 50. In fact, most European countries offer screening from age 50, including France, Spain and Germany.

In Ireland, people are not eligible for a colonoscopy until 59 and plans to reduce the eligibility age to 55 have been repeatedly delayed.

More needs to be done to ensure Irish citizens have access to bowel screening earlier. As the old adage goes “Prevention is better than cure.” – Yours, etc,

BARBARA GILLERAN,

Glasnevin,

Dublin 11.