Common signs include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain or cramping, and a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and investigations such as colonoscopy, which allows direct visualization and biopsy of suspicious areas, as well as imaging tests like CT scans to check for the spread of the disease. Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery to remove the affected part of the bowel, chemotherapy to target cancer cells, radiotherapy in certain cases, and increasingly, targeted therapies or immunotherapy for advanced disease. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, making awareness of symptoms and regular screening crucial.
One of our team of surgeons would be happy to meet with you if you would like to know more about bowel cancer, including testing to exclude this, or to discuss your symptoms.
Contact a member of the team to arrange a private appointment