In the UK, bowel cancer is the 4th most common cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, although the diagnosis rate is projected to go down in the next few years, early onset (in people under 50) bowel cancer is on the rise. Between the early 1990s and 2018, the number of adults aged 25 to 49 being diagnosed with bowel cancer increased by 22% in the UK.
Because of this, national screening for the disease has been extended to people aged 50 to 74. In some other countries, including the USA, national screening starts at age 45.
It is essential to be aware of the signs of bowel cancer because the earlier you can be diagnosed, the better your chances of effectively treating the disease. In this article, we highlight five key signs to look out for and when to seek medical advice.
Change in bowel habits
One of the first signs of bowel cancer is a notable change in your bowel habits. This can include changes in how often you need the toilet, the colour of your stool (poo), consistency, and control over your bowel movements (incontinence).
If your stool is white, clay-coloured, black, or bright red, this could indicate a further health concern that will need to be investigated.
There is no rule as to what is considered a ‘normal’ bowel movement, but you will know what is abnormal compared to your regular movements. We advise you to seek advice from your GP or a medical professional you trust if you have any concerns.
Abdominal pain
Bowel cancer can also cause abdominal pain to occur. This is because the tumour can block the digestive tract and cause a build-up in the bowel called a bowel obstruction. This can cause abdominal pain to come and go.
It can feel like cramping or sudden and intense pains across the whole abdomen.
Abdominal pain can be a symptom of many other conditions, so it is important to get your symptoms checked to determine what may be causing the pain.
Unexplained fatigue
Fatigue, which you can’t explain the reason for, could also be a symptom of bowel cancer. It can feel like a lack of energy or constant tiredness. This is because bowel cancer can cause anaemia, which can make you feel exhausted.
However, several factors can cause fatigue, so it is crucial to monitor how you feel and seek medical assistance if you believe your symptoms are abnormal.
Unexplained weight loss
You may also notice that you may be losing weight unexpectedly without reason. This is because bowel cancer can cause you to lose your appetite and burn excessive energy, as the cancer affects your immune system.
Persistent diarrhoea is also a symptom of bowel cancer that can cause you to lose weight, as you are not absorbing the right amount of nutrients.
If you notice you are rapidly losing weight and can’t explain the cause, we advise you to seek the advice of your GP or a medical professional.
Blood in your stool (poo)
Lastly, a key indicator of bowel cancer is finding blood in your poo. This may appear differently for different people. For example, you may see bright red streaks of blood, blood clots, blood and mucus mixed in, or it might look dark, black and tarry.
The colour of the blood can indicate where the issue is coming from:
- Bright red – bleeding is typically in the colon, rectum, or anus
- Dark red or maroon – bleeding is typically higher up in your colon or small intestine
- Black – bleeding is typically in your stomach, such as a bleeding stomach ulcer
Blood in your stool can occur for many reasons, such as an anal fissure or a haemorrhoid. To distinguish what may be causing the issue, consult a medical professional. They may suggest getting specific tests to investigate further – including a colonoscopy.
Private diagnostics and treatment at Digestive Health UK
If you have had any bowel cancer symptoms for three weeks or more, it is advised to book a bowel cancer screening.
At Digestive Health UK, our experienced specialists will thoroughly assess your health to determine your diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment. It’s essential to take care of your bowel health and assess any concerns that may be troubling you. Book an appointment today.
