St. Vincent’s University Hospital marks Bowel Cancer Awareness Month with launch of patient-centred Endoscopy Video Series

28th April 2026

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early detection, screening, and supporting patients through every stage of their care. To mark this, St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH), a globally recognised leader in healthcare and Ireland’s only JCI-accredited public hospital, is officially launching its innovative Endoscopy video series.

This pioneering initiative represents a significant step forward in how patients are supported and informed when preparing for procedures such as colonoscopies and gastroscopies.

SVUH is the first hospital in Ireland to offer such a comprehensive, patient-centred resource, developed through a detailed understanding of patient experiences from referral through to recovery. The aim is simple but important: to answer the questions patients often have, reduce anxiety and make the process clearer at every step.

The series, created by SVUH’s expert Endoscopy team in collaboration with patient representatives, includes short, informative videos – most under two minutes – that guide patients through each stage of their endoscopy journey. The videos are available on the SVUH website and YouTube channel, making them easily accessible before, during and after procedures.

By giving patients clear, practical information in advance, the series helps people feel more prepared and informed, which can make a real difference to their experience and outcomes.

Topics covered in the Endoscopy Video Series include:

• A Typical Patient Experience
• A Typical Colonoscopy Experience
• A Typical Gastroscopy Experience
• Colonoscopy Preparation – Diet
• Colonoscopy Bowel Preparation – Morning Appointment
• Colonoscopy Bowel Preparation – Afternoon Appointment
• Conscious Sedation
• After your Endoscopy
• How to get to SVUH Endoscopy Department

Dr Hugh Mulcahy, Consultant Gastroenterologist at SVUH, said:

“This video initiative is a huge step forward in improving patient care. By offering clear, easy-to-understand information, we can ensure that patients are fully prepared, reducing stress and enhancing their experience. The sustainability benefits are also significant, these videos will help decrease our reliance on paper-based resources, aligning with our commitment to a greener healthcare future. Ultimately, this initiative empowers patients to take control of their care, leading to better outcomes and greater satisfaction.”

As a designated cancer centre within the National Cancer Control Programme, SVUH plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of bowel cancer. Initiatives like this support earlier engagement with screening and help patients feel more confident attending for procedures such as colonoscopy, which remain a vital tool in detecting bowel cancer early.

The Endoscopy Video Series is now available online:
https://www.stvincents.ie/departments/endoscopy/patient-information-resources/