People with a family history of bowel cancer are less likely to have had screening than those who are less at risk.

Researchers found more than two thirds (71%) of those in the high risk category hadn’t undergone screening at all, 24% were having some screenings – but not frequently – and only 4% had regular screenings.

Those with a higher risk of developing the cancer because of a family history should have a colonoscopy every two to five years.

Around 20% of people have a family history of bowel cancer, and 3% of people are at high risk, and are recommended to undergo regular screenings.

Researchers believe their findings should be a catalyst for further studies to understand why screening numbers are so low, and what can be done to change this situation.