TerryWhite Chemmart Launches View Your Poo Campaign to Help Prevent Bowel Cancer

TerryWhite Chemmart has partnered with the Jodi Lee Foundation for a consumer campaign titled ‘View Your Poo’ to encourage Australians to stay vigilant in identifying common symptoms of bowel cancer.

Alarming Trends in Bowel Cancer

Recent statistics show that nearly 300 Australians receive a bowel cancer diagnosis every week. Bowel cancer has emerged as the leading cancer killer among those aged 25 to 34 years old.

View Your Poo Campaign

To address this concerning trend, TerryWhite Chemmart and the Jodi Lee Foundation will launch the "View Your Poo" awareness campaign tomorrow, Thursday 14 September. This initiative urges every Australian to pay attention to their toilet habits and lookout for potential signs such as blood in stools, unusual bowel habits, or changes in consistency.

Sophie Edwards, diagnosed at just 34 years old, now serves as an ambassador for the campaign, hoping her story will inspire others not to dismiss warning signs.

Sophie reflects, "For months, I experienced constant diarrhea and brushed it off as a stomach bug or dietary issue. I ignored the signs for too long, never considering it could be bowel cancer."

Your Body, Your Advocate

Sophie Edwards passionately encourages everyone, stating, "If you notice changes in your body that don't seem normal, see a doctor. You know your body better than anyone and advocating for your health is crucial."

Importance of Early Detection

Nick Lee OAM, Founder and Chair of the Jodi Lee Foundation, emphasizes the importance of early detection: "Identifying changes in bowel habits like blood in your stool or unexplained constipation or diarrhea can be life-saving. When detected early, up to 99% of bowel cancers can be treated successfully."

Age No Bar for Bowel Cancer

Brenton Hart, Chief Pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart, stresses that bowel cancer is not limited to older individuals. "The rates of bowel cancer among young people are rising significantly, making it the leading cancer killer for 25–34-year-olds. Awareness and action are crucial."

Take Control of Your Health

Mr Hart continues, "It is essential for everyone, young and old, to take charge of their health. If you experience symptoms like blood in your poo, changes in bowel habits and pain, bloating and cramping, unexplained fatigue or weight loss, consult your local GP immediately."

Family History Matters

Additionally, Mr Hart advises Australians to be aware of their family history regarding bowel cancer, as their risk may be higher. Speaking to your GP is the best thing people with a family history of bowel cancer can do as they can provide specific advice and investigations may apply.

Resources and Support

The 'View Your Poo' campaign offers accessible resources, including a dedicated website with the latest information on signs and symptoms, access to the Jodi Lee Foundation Online Bowel Cancer Symptom Checker, and the option to purchase at-home bowel cancer screening kits at participating TerryWhite Chemmart network pharmacies.

For more information, visit:

www.terrywhite.com.au/bowel-cancer

www.jodileefoundation.org.au