Bowel cancer is cancer that’s found anywhere in the large bowel, including the colon and rectum.
Sometimes referred to as colon cancer, symptoms can vary and may not always be present in the early stages.
But if they do occur, Dr Mike Hansen, a US-based medical doctor, said there are six warning signs you should never ignore.
1. Change in bowel habits
This can include diarrhoea, constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool, especially if the have been going on for more than three weeks, said Dr Hansen.
2. Blood in stools
Depending on different circumstances blood in stools can appear bright red, maroon or even black.
Dr Hansen added: “If you get some blood work and it turns out you’re anaemic, especially if you’re over the age of 40, that also becomes concerning for the possibility of colon cancer.”
3. Persistent belly pain
Watch out for persistent abdominal discomfort, such as feeling gassy, cramps or even abdominal pain.
4. Feels like there is still poop there
The sensation that your bowel doesn’t completely empty when you’re trying to go can also be a sign.
5. Persistent fatigue and/or weakness
While this is a symptom, it’s important to note there’s many different reasons why someone can have fatigue.
6. Unexplained weight loss
It’s one thing if you’re trying to lose weight or if you’re taking a weight loss drug and that causes you to lose weight, but it’s another thing when you don’t have a good explanation for the weight loss, said Dr Hansen.
He added: “There’s many medical conditions that can cause weight loss, but certainly colon cancer is on the list of considerations.”
The sooner bowel cancer can be identified and treated, the higher the likelihood of being cured.
Dr Hansen advised: “Regular screening for colon cancer, especially for those over the age of 45, or for those that have a family history of the disease, can help detect the cancer at an early stage when it’s more treatable.”
NHS bowel cancer screening checks are available to everyone aged 60 to 74 years. Although a programme is expanding to make it available to everyone aged 50 to 59 years.
