Bowel cancer’s six ‘hard to spot’ symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with nearly 43,000 individuals receiving a diagnosis each year, emphasizes the importance of early detection.dailyrecordHealth experts are reminding the public to be vigilant for any changes in toilet habits that might indicate bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK highlights that while this disease is prevalent, early detection can lead to a complete recovery. Symptoms, sometimes mistaken for less severe conditions like diarrhoea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), should not be disregarded. Cancer Research UK reports that the majority of new bowel cancer cases appear in individuals over 50, with 54 percent of cases deemed preventable. Insights from health experts as featured in the Mirror, shed light on the elusive symptoms of bowel cancer.

The NHS outlines the key warning signs of bowel cancer, which include changes in stool consistency, frequency, or appearance, blood in the stool, bleeding from the rectum, persistent urge to defecate, abdominal pain, bloating, unintentional weight loss, and unexplained fatigue. Dr. Luke Pratsides, a leading GP at Numan, urges vigilance towards symptoms such as blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits lasting over four weeks, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, and the sensation of needing to pass stools when the bowels are empty. He stresses the importance of seeking urgent medical attention if any of these symptoms are experienced.

Bowel cancer symptoms can be challenging to detect, often being described as generic, making diagnosis a complex process, noted by Hussain Abdeh, clinical director at Medicine Direct. Abdeh explains that initial GP assessments may include a digital rectal examination and analysis of a stool sample for blood traces. Dr. Pratsides advises individuals to consult their GP if concerned about potential bowel cancer symptoms, reassuring that difficulties in securing appointments should not hinder seeking medical advice. Pharmacist Abbas Kanani of Chemist Click highlights the advancements in bowel cancer treatment, indicating a survival rate improvement over the past 40 years.

In conclusion, early detection plays a crucial role in combatting bowel cancer, and being aware of the symptoms can lead to timely intervention and improved outcomes for individuals. Seeking medical advice promptly upon experiencing any concerning symptoms is vital in the fight against bowel cancer.

Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the importance of recognising the symptoms of bowel cancer for early detection and treatment. It stresses the need for vigilance regarding changes in bowel habits and other potential signs of the disease. By shedding light on the elusive symptoms and urging individuals to consult healthcare professionals promptly, the article serves as a valuable resource in raising awareness about bowel cancer. Early intervention is key in improving survival rates and outcomes for those affected by this prevalent cancer.