The SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie, is asking her constituents if they know the signs of bowel cancer.

This is part of the ‘Be Bowel Smart’ campaign which is running across the month of April as part of Bowel Cancer Awareness month, organised by Bowel Cancer UK.

Almost 4 in 10 people don’t know the main symptoms of bowel cancer, which is why Bowel Cancer UK are running this campaign. Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable, curable cancers, yet, due to a lack of awareness, it kills too many.

Commenting on the campaign, Christina McKelvie MSP said:

“Bowel Cancer UK and I share the same aim: to live in a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

“It is a sad reality, however, that too many people are still dying from this treatable disease.

“This is why I am more than happy to support this campaign running through the month of April. I hope that my constituents take the time to consider what their awareness of this disease is and to note some of the main symptoms of bowel cancer, such as unexplainable weight loss, changes in bowel habits, and pains or lumps in their stomach.

“My hope is, once constituents have refreshed themselves with the details of these symptoms, they can share them with friends, family and colleagues, collectively raising awareness of this disease, in turn saving lives.

“We are good at acting as a protective collective here in Scotland, so on this important matter, lets make sure we act accordingly and raise awareness of these symptoms. After all, one day it may just save you – or a loved one’s – life."