Kiwi Bowel Cancer Awareness Crisis: Symptoms Missed

One in Four Adults Unaware of Warning Signs

A concerning new survey reveals a significant deficit in public understanding of bowel cancer symptoms across New Zealand, with critical warning signs often overlooked or unknown.

Widespread Symptom Ignorance Revealed

New research from Bowel Cancer New Zealand indicates that a quarter of New Zealand adults cannot name a single symptom of bowel cancer without prompting. This lack of awareness is even more pronounced among individuals under 30, with 41% in this age group admitting to this deficit, despite increasing rates of the disease in younger demographics.

The national study, which surveyed over 1,250 adults, also found that a mere 21% feel adequately informed about bowel cancer. Alarmingly, even 72% of those aged 60 and above, the eligible age for screening, reported not feeling well-informed.

“Bowel cancer is the second-highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand, but it shouldn’t be. It’s beatable and treatable if caught early. Awareness is the first step toward prevention, but right now, too many Kiwis are in the dark.”

—Peter Huskinson, Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer NZ

Common Red Flags Flying Under the Radar

While blood in stool was the most frequently recalled symptom, only 40% of respondents spontaneously mentioned it. Abdominal pain was cited by 21%, yet just 14% identified changes in bowel habits, a symptom as common as bleeding in diagnosed cases.

Fewer than 10% of New Zealanders spontaneously mentioned symptoms such as unexplained weight loss or fatigue. Even when prompted, many struggled to link these signs directly to bowel cancer risks.

“Symptoms like fatigue, weight loss or bowel habit changes can be easy to ignore or attribute to something else – but they could be a warning sign. Knowing what to look for, and seeing your GP if something’s not right, is critical.”

—Sue Crengle, GP and Bowel Cancer NZ Medical Advisor

Barriers to Seeking Medical Help

The survey identified uncertainty about symptoms and their severity as major deterrents, with 26% unsure if their symptoms warranted a check-up. Financial concerns also proved significant, with 22% citing cost as a barrier to seeing a doctor, a figure rising to one-third for those under 45.

Embarrassment or discomfort discussing bowel issues also prevented 13% from seeking help. Younger adults, under 45, were less likely to consult a doctor compared to older age groups.

Dean Barker, a Bowel Cancer NZ ambassador diagnosed at 46, emphasized the importance of early detection. “Don’t sit on your symptoms. Know what to look for and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t tough it out or put if off – get it checked,” he urged.

Screening Awareness Trails Behind Symptom Knowledge

Despite its life-saving capabilities, many New Zealanders remain unaware that bowel screening can prevent cancer, not just detect it. Awareness doubled among those recently exposed to Bowel Cancer NZ messaging.

“That free test in your mailbox doesn’t just detect cancer – it can stop it before it starts. Don’t leave it in a drawer. Put it by the loo and get it done,” stated Peter Huskinson.

David Downs, diagnosed with pre-cancerous polyps at 54 through private screening, highlighted the critical need for earlier access. “Had I waited another six years until I was eligible, I could have had serious issues,” he commented.

Urgent Call for Action on Symptom Awareness

With over 3,300 New Zealanders diagnosed annually and 1,200 deaths, early intervention is paramount. “With screening currently limited to those aged 58 and over, symptom awareness remains our strongest line of defence,” explained Huskinson. Late-stage diagnoses are more common in New Zealand (26%) than in the UK (18%), with Māori and Pacific peoples facing particularly high rates of emergency diagnoses.

For those not eligible for screening, heightened symptom awareness is crucial. A recent study showed that individuals with a higher intake of processed meats had a 16% increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (BMJ, 2024).

“Everyone in Aotearoa cares about health and wants to stay cancer free, but first people need to know what to look out for,” concluded Huskinson. “If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Talk to your GP. No one ever died of embarrassment – but they do die of bowel cancer.”

Know the Signs, Seek Help

Bowel Cancer New Zealand encourages individuals to use their symptom checker online. Key symptoms to watch for include:

• Bleeding from the bottom or in your poo
• A persistent change in bowel habits
• Ongoing, periodic, or severe abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• A lump or swelling in the abdomen