Scotland Tonight: New Glasgow pilot aims to speed up bowel cancer diagnosis

A new initiative to accelerate bowel cancer diagnosis has been launched across Glasgow and surrounding areas.

The pilot – part of a UK-wide programme funded by Cancer Research UK with additional support from the Bowelbabe Fund – is focusing on improving how Faecal Immunochemical Tests (FIT) are used for patients with potential symptoms of bowel cancer.

Scotland has one of the highest rates of the disease in the UK, with around 4,200 people diagnosed each year. It remains the country’s second biggest cancer killer, claiming around 1,700 lives annually.

FIT kits, sent to patients by their GP, allow a poo sample to be collected at home and posted for testing. Traditionally, further investigation was recommended when tests detected at least ten micrograms of blood per gram of stool.

However, under the new system, the threshold for urgent referrals will rise to 20 micrograms, in line with updated national guidelines. Clinicians say evidence shows patients between ten and 20 micrograms have a very low likelihood of bowel cancer.

Dr Stephen McSorley, project lead and consultant colorectal surgeon at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC), said the changes will help ensure the fastest possible diagnosis for those most in need.

“By refining the FIT threshold and improving communication between primary and secondary care, we aim to ensure the fastest possible diagnosis for those at highest risk, while maintaining safety nets for others. For the first time, patients will also receive written communication outlining their next steps, helping them feel more informed and supported.”

Patients below the new threshold will still be monitored, with lower-priority referrals where needed and a second FIT offered if symptoms persist or if iron deficiency anaemia is present.

Research teams from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge will support evaluation of the pilot, which could be rolled out to other health boards if successful.

Associate professor Brian Nicholson from the University of Oxford said the added safeguards would help prevent missed diagnoses and could guide improvements UK-wide.

It’s hoped the approach will help the health board meet the national target of having 95% of patients begin treatment within 62 days of an urgent cancer referral – a goal not achieved nationally since 2012.

Although the pilot applies only to patients with symptoms, people aged 50 to 74 are urged to continue taking part in Scotland’s national bowel screening programme every two years.

Naser Turabi, director of evidence and implementation at Cancer Research UK, said: “Tackling diagnostic delays is critical to improving cancer outcomes, and this project has the potential to make a real difference for patients in the region and beyond.”

The initiative forms part of Cancer Research UK’s Test Evidence Transition programme, which works with NHS teams to accelerate early diagnosis and improve standards of care.