LIVES would be saved if more people took part in bowel cancer screening.

The disease is the second-biggest cancer killer in the UK and is the focus of a campaign launched by the main charity supporting those affected by the condition.

Bowel Cancer UK have named April as awareness month after their research revealed that only a third of those receiving the test actually complete it.

More than 41,000 men and women are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year — one every 15 minutes — and 16,200 people die of the disease

Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP Corri Wilson is backing the charity's appeal to get more people to take part in the screening.

She said: "As the local MP, I am totally committed to improving uptake rates for bowel cancer screening, both locally and nationally. I would urge my constituents who are sent a bowel screening test to use it.

"Taking part in bowel cancer screening is the best way to get diagnosed early. If you are 50 or over, take the test when you receive it in the post. If not, tell those in your life who are over 50 to take the test."

Chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, Deborah Alsina, added: "I’d like to thank Corri Wilson for supporting our campaign during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month to raise participation levels for bowel cancer screening. 

"One in 14 men and one in 19 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime but it is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.”

"The Scottish Bowel Screening Programme can detect it at an early stage in people with no symptoms when it is easier to treat. 

"Since its launch, it has been proven to save lives. If you’re registered with a GP and aged 50-74, you will receive a test in the post every two years. 

"You carry out the simple test at home in private and it comes with step by step instructions. The test looks for hidden blood in your poo, which could be an early sign of bowel cancer.

Visit bowelcanceruk.org.uk to find out how you can get involved in their campaign for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.