Understanding Bowel Cancer: A Growing Concern
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the fourth most common type of cancer in the UK. While it predominantly affects individuals over the age of 50, it can occur in people of all ages. According to Bowel Cancer UK, more than 2,700 individuals under 50 are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year in the UK. Research indicates that the incidence of this disease is increasing among younger adults aged 25 to 49 globally.
The impact of bowel cancer is significant, as it is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK, with around 17,700 deaths reported annually. However, it is important to note that bowel cancer is treatable and curable, especially when detected early. Genevieve Edwards, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, highlights that nearly everyone survives if diagnosed at the earliest stage, with more than nine out of ten people surviving for five years or more. This survival rate drops dramatically to one in ten when the disease is diagnosed at a later stage.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection plays a crucial role in improving survival rates. Unfortunately, fewer than four in 10 people are diagnosed at the early stages (stage one and two), while almost half are diagnosed at the later stages (stage three and four). Recognizing the early signs of bowel cancer is vital, as some symptoms may be intermittent or mistaken for other conditions.
Dr Rajnish Mankotia, a consultant colorectal surgeon, explains that early diagnosis allows for less invasive treatments. “Late-stage cancers have spread and require more extensive treatment with lower survival rates,” he says. Regular screening is an effective way to detect precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.
The NHS runs a national bowel cancer screening programme to identify the disease early, when treatment is most effective. In England, individuals aged 50 to 74 who are registered with a GP receive a home stool test (FIT kit) every two years. Those aged 75 and over can request a kit.
Symptoms to Watch For
Blood in the stool is one of the most commonly recognized symptoms of bowel cancer. Dr Marie Edison, head of medical policy at Vitality Health, notes that blood can vary in appearance, from bright red to dark, tarry stools. In some cases, blood may not be visible but can be detected through testing.
Changes in bowel habits, such as looser stools, increased frequency, or new-onset constipation, are also key indicators. Other symptoms include a persistent feeling of needing to strain during bowel movements, a lump in the back passage or abdomen, and abdominal or back passage pain lasting for four to six weeks, often accompanied by weight loss.
Unexplained weight loss is another red flag. Losing several kilograms without changes in diet or activity, or noticing that clothing becomes looser, should be taken seriously. Feeling very tired or breathless can also be signs of anaemia caused by blood loss from bowel cancer.
Pain or a lump in the stomach, along with nausea, vomiting, and a swollen abdomen, may indicate a bowel obstruction. These symptoms are particularly associated with larger colon tumours.
If you experience any of these symptoms for three or more weeks, it is essential to consult your GP. Bowel cancer symptoms can sometimes be confused with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your GP will typically start with an initial assessment, including a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and blood tests. Stool-based tests can detect hidden blood and prompt further investigation. A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard diagnostic test, using a camera to examine the inside of the bowel and take biopsies. If a colonoscopy is not possible, a CT colonography or CT scan may be used.
Treatment for bowel cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Surgery is the most common treatment, involving the removal of polyps or parts of the colon. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be used for higher-risk stages to shrink tumours or improve resectability. For advanced cancer, the focus shifts to palliative care, aiming to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Reducing Your Risk
It is estimated that around half of all bowel cancers could be prevented through a healthier lifestyle. Certain lifestyle factors can significantly reduce the risk of developing this disease. Dr Marie Edison advises stopping smoking, as it is linked to seven per cent of bowel cancer cases in the UK. Limiting alcohol consumption, increasing fibre intake, and avoiding processed meats are also important steps.
Maintaining an active lifestyle and a healthy weight can further reduce the risk, as excess body fat is associated with an increased risk of bowel cancer. Attending regular screenings is crucial for early detection and prevention.
By staying informed and proactive about your health, you can play a vital role in reducing the impact of bowel cancer.
