More than 23,000 visits were made to NHS bowel cancer websites on Wednesday, compared with 2,000 the day before. Dame Deborah, a former deputy headteacher who raised £7m for cancer research through her Bowelbabe fund, died aged 40 on Tuesday. She documented her illness on Instagram and on the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C. Her final words to the audience included a message for people to “check your poo – it might just save your life”. NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard said there was no doubt James’ message was “lifesaving”. After James’ death was announced, there were 23,274 visits to NHS bowel cancer websites, where symptoms reported include changes in bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain, unexpected weight loss and unexplained fatigue. Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in England, with around 37,000 new cases each year. Paying tribute, Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Dame Deborah James has left an incredible legacy and changed the national conversation around cancer. These figures reflect the powerful and life-saving impact it had – inspiring countless people across the country to get informed, get tested and speak up. “Having lost my father to bowel cancer, I know how devastating this disease can be and we need to continue to break down the barriers around what he called the ‘C word’ – encouraging people to have open and honest conversations.” He added: “Our upcoming 10-year cancer plan will build on this with an emphasis on early diagnosis to help save more lives.” Pritchard said James was “an inspiration to us all – her death this week touched the nation. People are often uncomfortable talking about their cancer diagnosis and treatment, but Deborah’s bravely speaking out about her personal journey has motivated thousands more people to get their symptoms under control. There’s no doubt about it – this was a lifesaver. “We must now continue Deborah’s fantastic work in her honour… Talking about cancer saves lives. Well, our message to you is – don’t be frivolous about evil. check if you have worrying signs or symptoms.” Dame Cally Palmer, the national director of cancer for NHS England, said: “Early detection of bowel cancer saves lives and Deborah has made a difference to so many people with her extraordinary courage and spirit. She did the unthinkable and by getting people to talk about this disease, she was an inspiration to so many. “We need to continue what Deborah started.”
