A new campaign which encourages the over-fifties to get tested for bowel cancer has been launched.
Still Game star Ford Kiernan voices the television advert which promotes screening for the third most common cancer in Scotland. It carries the message that nine out of 10 people will survive bowel cancer if it is detected early.
The campaign, backed by former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, urges people aged between 50 and 74 to take advantage of the free screening to spot what can be a “hidden” cancer, with few visible early warning signs.
Scottish Health Secretary Alex Neil, who launched the campaign, said: “The earlier bowel cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat and the better the chance of a successful outcome. That is why bowel screening is so important.”
The 40-second advert with the message “Bowel cancer. Don’t take a chance, take the test” features Kiernan speaking to a man sitting on the toilet, encouraging him to get tested.
Osbourne, who survived bowel cancer, has given her support to the campaign.
She said: “The sooner bowel cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival. That’s why everyone needs to participate in the screening programme and learn about the symptoms.”