Bowel cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer diagnosed in the UK, with approximately 40,000 new cases being diagnosed each year.
It is the 3rd most common cancer in Northern Ireland.
Bowel Cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the large bowel. Your large bowel is made up of both your colon and your rectum. Almost 90% of people diagnosed with bowel cancer are over 60 years old.
What are the symptoms?
There are several main symptoms which should never be ignored. These include;
- Bleeding from your bottom and/or blood in your poo
- A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason
- A pain or lump in your tummy
If you do experience any of the symptoms described then you must contact your GP. Do not delay. We understand that in the current climate, people may be afraid to call their GP or attend hospital. However an early diagnosis could save your life. It is therefore essential that you speak to a medical professional.
What factors can increase your risk?
There are some factors which can increase your risk of developing bowel cancer. These include;
- Not eating enough fibre
- Eating processed meat or too much red meat
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Not getting enough physical activity
Other factors can also contribute including aging, having a strong family history of the disease or having inflammatory bowel disease or Type 2 Diabetes. Note though that having these risk factors doesn’t mean that you will definitely get bowel cancer.
Early detection of bowel cancer could save your life. Therefore it is imperative that if you have any of the symptoms listed you contact a GP.
In the UK those aged 75 and over can request a test kit by calling the Bowel Screening Helpline. The test kit will allow you to collect a sample at home and then send it off for analysis. To receive your kit simply call the Bowel Screening Helpline on 0800 015 2514.
Don't wait or suffer in silence. If you would like to make an appointment to discuss any of the above with one of our GPs or Consultant Specialists in this area please follow the options below.
Our Doctors will follow the approved NICE Guidelines when making any diagnosis.
If you would like to book an appointment or require further information on the available options, please do not hesitate to contact our private patient booking team via our online enquiry form.
Alternatively, email Kingsbridge Private Hospital