Raising awareness about bowel cancer is crucial to help with early detection increasing chances of successful treatment and improves outcomes. Awareness helps educate individuals allowing them to recognise symptoms and seek timely medical advice. It also provides information and resources for patients and their families navigating diagnosis and treatment.
What is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer in Australia. It is estimated that one in 20 people will be diagnosed by the time they are 85. Regular screening, especially for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of bowel cancer is crucial for early detection.
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, develops from the inner lining of the bowel and is usually preceded by growths called polyps which may become invasive cancer if undetected. Depending on where the cancer begins, bowel cancer may be called colon or rectal cancer.
Australian Bowel Cancer Statistics
It is estimated that more than 15,300 people were diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 69 years old.
Bowel cancer is a significant health concern worldwide. It is one of the most common types of cancer. It can cause severe harm and death.
Certain Factors Increase the Risk of Developing Bowel Cancer:
The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. Signs of bowel cancer such as changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation), blood in stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss and fatigue due to low iron levels. Many people will not have symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
The risk of colorectal cancer can be reduced by choosing a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Recognising symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits: Such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency.
- Blood in stool: Whether bright red or dark.
- Abdominal discomfort: Including cramps, pain or bloating.
- Unexplained weight loss: Without changes in diet or exercise.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak without apparent cause.
If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Prevention and Screening
Regular screening, especially for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of bowel cancer is crucial for early detection. Screening tests like colonoscopies or stool tests can detect cancer early when it's most treatable. The at-home bowel screening test is called a faecal immunochemical test (FIT).
The presence of blood in poo may be due to conditions other than bowel cancer such as medications, polyps, haemorrhoids or inflammation of the bowel but the underlying cause of the bleeding needs to be investigated by a colonoscopy. During the procedure any polyps can be identified and removed or a diagnosis of bowel cancer confirmed.
A negative test result means blood in poo has not been detected and it is recommended that you repeat the test every 2 years.
Treatment
Treatment for bowel cancer depends on various factors:
- Surgery: Often the primary treatment to remove the cancerous tissue.
- Chemotherapy and radiation: Used in conjunction with surgery or alone in certain cases to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours.
- Targeted therapies: Drugs that target specific abnormalities within cancer cells.
How Can We Help?
The Pharmacists at Pharmacy 4 Less can assist with managing medications used to treat bowel cancer and its side effects, ensuring proper adherence and addressing any concerns patients may have. Our friendly Pharmacists can also offer advice on managing side effects of treatment such as nausea, fatigue and changes in appetite.
Bowel cancer is a prevalent yet highly treatable form of cancer when detected early. By understanding its symptoms, risk factors, preventive measures and available treatments, we can collectively improve outcomes and reduce its impact on individuals and communities.
Let's continue spreading awareness and knowledge about bowel cancer, advocating for early detection. Prioritise regular health screenings and encourage others to do the same because awareness saves lives. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against bowel cancer.
Resources:
Bowel cancer | Causes, Symptoms & Treatments | Cancer Council