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Bowel Cancer: Spot 5 Key Warning Signs Now
16 Mar
Summary
- Blood in stools can be bright red or dark, signaling issues.
- Changes in bowel habits like looser stools or constipation warrant investigation.
- Abdominal pain, bloating, and unexplained weight loss are critical symptoms.
As Bowel Cancer Awareness Month approaches in April, experts emphasize the importance of recognizing key symptoms. Mr. Jeremy Clark, a consultant surgeon, points out that blood in stools, whether bright red or dark, requires medical attention. Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as sudden shifts to looser stools or new constipation lasting more than a couple of weeks, should also be reported to a GP.
Further warning signs include abdominal pain and bloating, which can indicate underlying bowel issues. Unexplained weight loss due to digestive impact is another critical symptom. Clark notes that these signs can often be mistaken for less serious conditions like hemorrhoids or IBS, leading to delays in diagnosis.
Early reporting of any unusual changes is vital for improving treatment success. GPs can provide FIT kits for at-home testing, and individuals aged 50-74 are routinely offered screening. A positive FIT test or persistent symptoms may lead to further investigation through colonoscopies or CT scans, enabling earlier and more treatable diagnoses.
