Bowel Cancer Awareness.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK: around 35,000 people are diagnosed with it each year. It can occur at any age but is most common in people over the age of 60. Bowel cancer is a lump created by an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the lining of the bowel. There is a good chance that bowel cancer can be cured if diagnosed and treated early.

Causes of bowel cancer?

The cause of bowel cancer isn’t fully understood. One of the main factors is increasing age. The risk of bowel cancer is higher if you have a family history of bowel cancer (although not automatically inherited) or with long-term bowel conditions. An inactive lifestyle and a diet low in fibre and vegetables are thought to increase the risks.

What are the symptoms of bowel cancer?

Not everyone will have symptoms and the symptoms may vary. The most common higher-risk symptoms to look out for are:

• A persistent change in bowel habit especially going more often or looser for several weeks.

• Bleeding from the anus without any obvious reason.

• Unexplained loss of weight and/or loss of appetite.

• Abdominal pain, especially if severe.

• A lump or swelling in your abdomen (tummy).

• Unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia.

Treatment of bowel cancer:

This will vary from person to person and may include:

• Surgery - most common form of treatment for bowel cancer.

• Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy - may be needed to help reduce the size and progression of the disease.

Support - all patients with bowel cancer and their families will be supported by their GP and specialist doctors and nurses to help them with their care.

Can bowel cancer be prevented?

People can take active steps to improve lifestyle and reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer by:

• Eating a healthy diet. This means eating lots of fruit and vegetables (the recommended 5-a-day), wholegrain foods and fish, and eats less fat, red and processed meat.

• Take regular exercise and try to keep a healthy weight.

• Stop smoking.

• Cut back on alcohol.

Know your body and how it usually functions so that you recognise changes in your bowel habits.

If you are worried make an appointment to see you GP to discuss your concerns.
www.beatingbowelcancer.org