Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer. It affects the large bowel, which is made up of the colon and the rectum, and mainly develops from pre-cancerous growths called polyps.
Nearly 43,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year in the UK and there are currently around 268,000 people currently living with the diagnosis across the country, according to Bowel Cancer UK.
As with all cancers, the earlier you catch it, the better - and knowing the warning signs and symptoms of the disease is vital to make sure that treatment can be given as soon as possible.
With April being Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, Michael Carson, senior litigation executive at Patient Claim Line, has released advice on what the red flag symptoms of bowel cancer are and what to do if you’ve received delayed treatment.
What are the red flag symptoms of bowel cancer?
There are three main symptoms of bowel cancer to be aware of - blood in your poo, although often there is not enough to be seen, a change in bowel habits, especially needing to poo more or having almost diarrhoea a lot, and pains in the stomach or bloating, especially after eating. Another sign can also be unexpected or unintended weight loss.
What factors increase my risk of getting bowel cancer?
Michael said: “The factors that increase the risk of bowel cancer are much the same as with any cancer. Smoking, an unhealthy diet high in processed meat, a lack of exercise, obesity and alcohol will all increase the risk. There can also be other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or familial adenomatous polyposis, a genetic condition.”
How can I reduce my chances of developing bowel cancer?
“Eat healthy with lots of vegetables and introduce a high amount of fibre into your diet," Michael said. "Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, or do not exceed the recommended limits. Take regular exercise and keep your weight within a normal BMI range.”
Who can use a home test kit to screen for bowel cancer?
Generally, anyone aged 60 and above will be sent a home test kit every two years. You may also be given one if you have a family history of bowel cancer.
The home test kit is not generally given if you start having symptoms of bowel cancer, as a referral for hospital investigations would be more useful at that point.
What should a doctor or medical professional do upon recognising the red flag symptoms of bowel cancer?
Michael said: “We would encourage anyone who believes that they are experiencing these symptoms to visit their GP immediately. It is important to ensure that upon diagnosis, patients are referred to a bowel cancer specialist, where investigations should be undertaken. These might include a flexible sigmoidoscopy, a colonoscopy or a CT scan.”
What are the main treatments for bowel cancer?
Surgery is normally always required. This may also be backed up with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.
What happens if bowel cancer isn’t treated quickly?
“Without adequate treatment, the cancer can grow and may spread to other parts of the body. Ultimately, failing to treat bowel cancer is likely to be fatal," Michael said.
