Understanding Bowel Cancer: Causes, Symptoms & Early Detection
![Illustration 1: Digestive System Highlighting Colon and Rectum]
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK and globally, particularly in adults over 50. However, rising cases in younger people make awareness and early detection more important than ever.
What Causes Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer often develops from non-cancerous polyps in the lining of the bowel, which can turn malignant over time. While the exact cause isn't always known, several risk factors can increase the likelihood:
🔹 Age – Most cases occur in people over 50
🔹 Diet – High intake of red or processed meats and low fibre diets
🔹 Lifestyle – Obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol
🔹 Family History – Having close relatives with bowel cancer
🔹 Inflammatory Bowel Diseases – Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
🔹 Genetic Conditions – Such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Common Symptoms of Bowel Cancer
![Illustration 2: Person clutching abdomen with symptom icons (e.g. toilet, blood drop, weight scale)]
Bowel cancer symptoms can be mistaken for other common gastrointestinal issues, but persistent signs shouldn’t be ignored. Key symptoms include:
🔸 Blood in the stools or rectal bleeding
🔸 Persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation
🔸 Abdominal pain or discomfort, often lower belly cramps
🔸 Unexplained weight loss
🔸 Feeling tired or breathless – This can be linked to iron-deficiency anaemia
🔸 A lump or pain in the abdomen or rectum
⚠️ Note: Many of these symptoms are not exclusive to bowel cancer, but if they persist for 3 weeks or more, a GP should be consulted.
The Importance of Early Detection
![Illustration 3: Magnifying glass over colon with early stage polyp]
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. When found early, bowel cancer is more than 90% curable. Here’s how you can stay proactive:
1. NHS Bowel Screening
In the UK, bowel cancer screening is offered to people aged 60 to 74 (and expanding to younger age groups). The FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) detects hidden blood in the stool. It’s simple, non-invasive, and done at home.
2. Know Your Body
Recognising persistent symptoms and seeking help early could be life-saving. You don’t need to wait for screening if something doesn’t feel right.
3. Genetic Testing (for High-Risk Individuals)
People with a strong family history may be offered earlier and more frequent screening.
Prevention Tips
🟢 Eat more fibre – Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
🟢 Cut down on red and processed meats
🟢 Stay active – Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days
🟢 Maintain a healthy weight
🟢 Limit alcohol and stop smoking
Final Thoughts
Bowel cancer is treatable – especially when caught early. Awareness, education, and routine screening can save lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, don’t delay – talk to your doctor today.
Comments
Post a Comment