Early detection of bowel cancer greatly increases the chances of successful treatment. However, symptoms usually appear only when the cancer has reached a more advanced stage.
According to Bowel Cancer UK, the survival rate is very high for those diagnosed at an early stage, but it decreases as the disease progresses.
Dr. Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explains that in stage one, the cancer has penetrated beyond the lining of the bowel into the muscular layer of the intestines but has not spread elsewhere. She also notes that stage one bowel cancer often shows no symptoms.
Each year, approximately 16,800 people in the UK die from bowel cancer, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country. This highlights the importance of being aware of symptoms. A doctor has noted that bowel cancer often has a long pre-cancerous phase, potentially spanning a decade from the growth of a small bowel polyp to the development of full-blown cancer. By stage two, the tumor has penetrated the bowel wall and may have invaded nearby tissues, but it has not yet reached the lymph nodes or other distant parts of the body. Some patients may still be asymptomatic at this stage. Symptoms typically become noticeable in stages three and four, which can include rectal bleeding and abdominal pain. Dr. Lee identifies common symptoms during these advanced stages as:
- Rectal bleeding
- Bleeding from the anus
- Changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Lower abdominal pain
- Changes in stool shape, such as elongated and narrow stools
- Increased gas from the rectum
The NHS indicates that unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, bloating, and a frequent urge to defecate, even after just doing so, are warning signs to watch for. They advise anyone experiencing these symptoms for three weeks or more to seek medical advice from their GP without delay.
Dr. Lee explains that in stage three of bowel cancer, the disease has spread to the lymph nodes but not to other body parts. By stage four, it may have metastasized to organs such as the lungs or liver. Common symptoms in stages three and four include tiredness, weakness, abdominal discomfort, unintended weight loss, and vomiting. Additionally, jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and difficulty breathing may occur.
Dr. Lee stresses the importance of consulting a GP if there are any concerns: “Don’t hesitate to see your GP if you’re worried. There’s no need to feel embarrassed; your GP is there to help you. They will be glad you’ve come in and will do everything possible to assist you. Don’t take any chances.”
Ways to reduce risk of bowel cancer
The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities states that around 50% of bowel cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes. Important dietary adjustments include reducing the intake of processed and red meats and increasing fiber consumption.
Additional risk factors include:
- Age over 50
- Alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
- Excess body weight
- Genetic predisposition to bowel cancer
- Inflammatory bowel conditions
- Presence of bowel polyps
- Lynch syndrome
- Familial adenomatous polyposis
Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can also help prevent cancer. Dr. Lee noted the intriguing ability of dogs to detect bowel cancer, mentioning that in some studies, dogs have matched the detection accuracy of colonoscopies. They can sense the chemicals emitted by tumors in exhaled air and feces. Dr. Lee advises that if there are any health concerns, consulting a doctor is crucial. Early diagnosis and treatment of tumors greatly improve the prognosis.