PAUL Mackey, consultant at Nuffield Health, Taunton Hospital, summarises what everyone should know about bowel cancer.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer (commonly called bowel cancer) is a cancerous growth that arises from the lining of the large bowel.
Who gets it?
It is most common after the age of 60, but no age group is exempt. About 3% of all colorectal cancers are diagnosed under the age of 35. Approximately 36,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed a year.
What are the symptoms?
The following ‘red flag’ symptoms always need investigating: 1) Bleeding from the back passage 2) Anaemia 3) Change of bowel habit 4) Bowel obstruction
Is it treatable? Bowel cancer can only be successfully cured by surgery.
What should I do if I have symptoms? If you have any ‘red flag’ symptoms, you must see your GP who will refer you to see a colorectal specialist. Early diagnosis and treatmentis associated with the highest chance of cure.
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