Bowel Cancer Awareness

Bowel cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK. However, when detected early, it is also one of the most treatable. Every April, Bowel Cancer Awareness Month shines a spotlight on this disease — and importantly, what we can do to catch it early.

What Is Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) affects the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. It can often develop slowly over time, and in its early stages, there may be no noticeable symptoms.

Key signs to watch for:

• Blood in your poo or on the toilet paper
• A persistent change in bowel habits (e.g., looser stools or going more often)
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Ongoing lower abdominal pain

Other conditions can cause these symptoms, and they should never be ignored. If you develop any of the above, please seek medical advice promptly.

Why Are Bowel Cancer Rates Rising?

Most cases are detected in people over the age of 50. In recent years, there has been a rise in bowel cancer rates among younger adults (under 50) both in the UK and in other countries.

The reasons are not fully clear, but possible factors include:

• Poor diet: High consumption of red and processed meats, low fibre intake, and insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables can increase the risk.
• Sedentary lifestyles: Lack of physical activity is a known risk factor for bowel cancer.
• Obesity: Excess body fat can lead to inflammation, which may promote cancer development.
• Alcohol and smoking: Both are linked to higher cancer risk.
• Gut health and inflammation: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can increase the likelihood of developing bowel cancer.

Why Early Detection Is Key

• Catching bowel cancer early can literally be life-saving.
• When found at the earliest stage, more than 9 out of 10 people will survive for five years or more. Sadly, many cases are diagnosed too late, when treatment becomes more difficult.
• This is why screening is so important. It helps detect bowel cancer — or even pre-cancerous growths, such as polyps — before symptoms appear. Early action means better outcomes.

Bowel Cancer Screening in the UK

The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme is offered to people aged 5o to 74 in England who are registered with an NHS GP. It’s currently being expanded to include those aged 50 and over.

The test itself is called the FIT test (Faecal Immunochemical Test).

• The NHS automatically sends a kit to your home every two years.
• You use the stick provided to collect a small sample of your poo.
• Place it in the sample tube, seal it, and then insert it into the freepost envelope provided.
• Results usually arrive within two weeks.

It’s easy, completely free, and it could save your life.

What You Can Do Right Now

• If you’re eligible, please don’t delay — take the test as soon as it arrives.
• Notice symptoms? Seek medical advice as soon as possible.
• Encourage friends and family to participate in screenings.
• Live healthier: more fibre, regular exercise, less alcohol, no smoking.

Final Thoughts

Bowel cancer is common — but it can also be beatable, especially when caught early. Screening is one of the best defences we have. Do not put it off.

NHS Bowel Cancer Screening

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