What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, develops in the digestive system, in the part of the bowel that primarily absorbs water (colon) or at the end of the bowel (rectum).
Diet has been linked to the development of this form of cancer. People who eat a diet high in fat and protein, but low in the fibre found in fruit and vegetables are at an increased risk.
People who have a history of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of bowel cancer and it may also be more likely to occur if you have a close family history of the disease. However, 75% of cases occur in people with no family history or prior digestive disease.
Symptoms of Bowel Cancer
Blood on or in the stool Persistent bleeding from the rectum (back passage) A change in normal bowel habits - constipation and/or diarrhoea that lasts longer than six weeks for no obvious reason Unexplained loss of weight Pain or discomfort in the stomach area A feeling of still having to go to the toilet even after having emptied the bowels Extreme tiredness A lump in the abdomen
If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have bowel cancer.
What the GP may do
The GP may carry out a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). The doctor will insert a gloved finger into your back passage. The reason for doing this is that the doctor can feel the for lumps/bumps in the bowel. He may refer you for further tests including colonoscopy, and some blood tests.
What can you do? Eat a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and cereals Eat less fat Reduce the amount of red and processed meat you eat Keep alcohol consumption within sensible limits Be aware of your normal bowel habits Exercise regularly
If you have any concerns about bowel cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on infocis@ulstercancer.org