What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a common form of cancer. Screening aims to detect the cancer at a very early stage, even before you start to display symptoms. Early detection means treatment is likely to be far more effective.
Symptoms of bowel cancer
Watch our video to find out more about the symptoms of bowel cancer and how it is diagnosed.
Need to know
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What happens during your initial consultation? icon plus
Your consultant will ask about your symptoms and whether you have a family history of bowel cancer.
Screening can include:
- a physical examination of your tummy and the inside of your bottom by your consultant
- the insertion of a very small camera up your bottom in order to view your colon on a monitor
- taking a small sample from inside your colon for tests
- the inspection of your bowel using a slighter longer camera than the one used for your colon
- a scan of your bowel and rectum.
In each of the tests you'll not be given an anaesthetic. They may feel uncomfortable, but they are not painful.
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How to prepare icon plus
Your bowel will need to be empty before any screening tests are carried out.
You may be asked to eat a special diet and take a laxative to make you go to the toilet before you visit your consultant. -
After your screening icon plus
Screening should take no more than an hour to complete and you'll be able to go home afterwards. Your consultant will advise on the test results and advise of any next steps.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.