BOWEL cancer patients across the country are set to benefit from improved treatment after significant findings by colorectal specialists from a Basingstoke charity.

Each year more than 40,000 residents in the UK are diagnosed with bowel cancer – the second most common cause of cancer death in the British Isles.

But, thanks to research carried out by The Pelican Cancer Foundation (PCF), a charity based in the borough that drives innovation and development in bowel (colorectal), bladder, prostate and liver cancer treatment through research and education, people diagnosed with the condition are being given better treatments.

A two-year study carried out by Pelican Research fellow Mit Dattani, supported by consultant colorectal surgeon Brendan Moran, has led to increased awareness on the best medical practice for treating cancer patients.

Significant Polyp Early Colorectal Cancer (SPECC) has been developed and funded by PCF, which is based at The Ark, in Basingstoke.

The Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, has resulted in an increase in the detection of significant polyps and early bowel cancer.

Its study on the management of SPECC lesions across nine hospitals in England demonstrated variations in treatment and outcomes.

SPECC aims to increase awareness of the particular problems posed by removing pre-cancerous growths and earlier stage bowel cancers.

It advises on the strategic approaches to their treatment, including the referral of complex cases to a specialised unit and greater collaboration between cancer specialists.

Mit, a colorectal registrar, said: “I am delighted to see the on-going results of my research into SPECC being taken forward onto this national training programme. I am grateful to Pelican for providing the funding for this vital study which has led to increased medical awareness around Britain of best practice for the treatment of significant polyps and early stage bowel cancer.

“My hope is that this work will ensure that patients receive the appropriate treatment for their condition within the context of a multi-disciplinary setting.”