Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, with nearly 41,000 people diagnosed with the disease each year in the country.
It is also the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the US, according to cancer.organd is responsible for taking the lives of around 50,000 people a year in the country.
As with any type of cancer, early detection often allows for more treatment options. And, while a colonoscopy is the best way to find out if you have this cancer, there are also early signs that can help you detect if you should be concerned.
But what are the symptoms of possible bowel cancer? We have asked an expert to guide us…
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects the large intestine, says Bowel Cancer UK.
The large intestine, also known as the large intestine, is made up of the colon and rectum.
When cells in the body begin to divide and multiply in an uncontrolled way, this leads to the development of cancer, explains Cancer Research UK.
Although bowel cancer is more likely to develop in the large intestine than the small intestine, cancer of the small intestine can still occur.
The small intestine contains the duodenum, the part of the intestine that connects to the stomach, and the ileum, the part of the intestine that connects to the large intestine.
When cells become cancerous in the large intestine, they can spread to other areas of the body, such as the liver or lungs. This is called advanced bowel cancer.
What are the main symptoms of bowel cancer?
“It can be easy to miss the symptoms of bowel cancer, and people often attribute variations in bowel movements or inflammation to what they eat or to changes in their bodies as they age. However, putting off seeking help can put people at risk. As with many cancers, bowel cancer is curable if caught early,” says Elizabeth Rogers, Associate Clinical Director and GP at Bupa UK.
“If you notice blood in your stool, changes in your bowel movements, bloating or abdominal pain after eating, see your GP as soon as possible. Don’t put it off, early diagnosis does save lives. Other symptoms can be unexplained weight loss and extreme tiredness for no reason.
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Even if there’s no blood, get checked
The detection of traces of blood is a warning symptom that should never be ignored. But that doesn’t mean it’s the only symptom, so even if there’s no blood, check with your GP. “You should see your GP as soon as possible about any change in bowel movement, bloating, or abdominal pain after eating,” says Rogers.
Pay attention to the changes
When it comes to our bowel habits, what’s normal for one person may be different for another. For example, some people have more bowel movements each day, while others have them much less frequently. A useful parameter is to go to consultation if changes are noticed that result in something unusual for one’s own habits.
“I always advise people to be aware of what is normal for them,” says Rogers, “and to be on the lookout for unexplained or persistent changes, which could be an indicator of cancer.”
What if you already have a history of suspicious digestive symptoms?
Digestive problems are very common and these symptoms do not always indicate bowel cancer. They can also result from conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or inflammatory bowel disorders, among other causes. This can make it difficult to know when to see a doctor again, especially if these intestinal problems have been persistent. However, Rogers says it’s important to “go to your GP” if you notice any of the changes listed above. If something seems unusual, different, or worrisome, it’s best to go in for a checkup.
Are there people at higher risk of bowel cancer?
Rogers states that bowel cancer is “rare before the age of 40,” but it is possible at any age. Some people may be at higher risk, for example “if you have a family history of bowel cancer, if you have an inherited bowel disease such as familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer, also known as Lynch syndrome.”
People with long-standing inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or who have a history of benign growths (polyps or adenomas) may also be at higher risk. Rogers notes that other factors, such as obesity, smoking, a diet low in fiber or high in processed and red meats, and excessive alcohol consumption, may also be associated with higher rates of bowel cancer.
Do you present any symptoms? Go to a checkup
The disease can also affect healthy and fit people. Roberts is known for her love of healthy living and for being a great runner. So everyone should get checked if she has any symptoms.
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