Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a time to come together and raise awareness of the fourth most common cancer in the UK.

What is bowel cancer?

The bowel is part of the digestive system. It is made up of the small bowel (small intestine) and the large bowel (colon and rectum). Cancer affecting the large bowel is known as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer.

Bowel cancer most commonly develops from pre-cancerous growths known as polyps. Not all polyps turn into cancer. If found, they can be removed before they become cancerous. Bowel cancer can also be related to an inherited genetic risk, this means you may have an increased risk of developing bowel cancer based on a history of cancer in your family.

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How can you reduce your risk of bowel cancer?

Dr Jonathan Hoare, Consultant Gastroenterologist at London Digestive Health explains the steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer.

As the fourth most common cancer in the UK, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer. If diagnosed early, it is a very treatable form of cancer - the earlier it is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the higher the chance of successful treatment.

Bowel cancer is more common in people over 50 years of age, but it can affect anyone and some types are more common in younger adults. If you notice any changes to your health, or are experiencing symptoms of bowel cancer, don’t delay in seeing your doctor.

The most common symptoms of bowel cancer include:

An unexplained and persistent change to your bowel habits
Blood in your stool, or bleeding from your bottom
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue – extreme, unexplained tiredness
Pain in your stomach or a noticeable lump in your stomach

If you have any new, persistent, or unusual symptoms, or you feel something is wrong, even if it is not covered on this list, do not delay in speaking to your GP.

Mr Alastair Windsor talks about signs and symptoms of bowel cancer

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What are the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer?

Mr Alastair Windsor, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon & Chair of the HCA UK Gastrointestinal Cancer Board, tells you about the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Danielle’s story – no matter how old you are, or how fit, if something doesn’t feel right, get checked.

When Danielle, aged 28, started to experience bowel symptoms, she saw her doctor. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, she underwent surgery.

But when things still didn’t feel right, Danielle sought the expertise of Professor Sina Dorudi, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at London Digestive Centre.

Read more about Danielle's cancer diagnosis and treatment

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What are the most googled questions about bowel cancer?

Dr Cliona Gallagher

GP at HCA Healthcare UK

If you are experiencing any bowel symptoms or feel something is wrong, make an appointment with your GP right away, even if you have had bowel screening previously.

If you’ve seen your GP about these symptoms before, but they persist, see your GP again. Being vigilant about your health is never a waste of a doctor's time. If it’s nothing serious, your mind will be put at ease. But if it is cancer, early diagnosis can make all the difference.

Remember, GPs see many patients with bowel symptoms so there is no need to feel embarrassed. These symptoms could be related to other more common health conditions, but don’t delay in getting them checked.

Locations

At HCA Healthcare UK, across our network of hospitals and clinics, we have extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating cancer. Our teams of cancer specialists, including consultants, cancer nurses and other cancer healthcare experts, come together to ensure that each individual patient receives a personalised treatment plan.

Our cancer care network is based in London and Manchester, where patients can expect the very best diagnostic tests, treatment, aftercare and support.