This type of cancer is common in the UK, with around 42,300 people being diagnosed with the disease each year. Both sexes are susceptible to bowel cancer and early treatment is necessary for long-term survival. Cancer Research UK noted symptoms of bowel cancer that can be found in men and women. Pay attention if you are suffering from a little belly pain, as abdominal pain is a possible sign of the disease; there may also be a lump felt on the right side of the abdomen.
Three other signs of bowel cancer include unexplained weight loss, tiredness and shortness of breath.
“Consult your doctor if you are concerned about any symptoms that you think may be caused by bowel cancer,” said Cancer Research UK.
When visiting your doctor because of worrying symptoms, these tips can help you get the most out of your consultation.
- Write down your symptoms, when they started, when they happen and how often
- Anything that makes them worse or better
- Notify your doctor if you are concerned about cancer
- Tell them if there is a family history of cancer
- Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand
During the visit, the doctor may perform a rectal examination – when a gloved finger is placed in the back passage to feel any abnormalities.
“Obesity is the cause of bowel cancer,” warned Cancer Research UK; Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more.
Smoking is also related to the disease, with the risk of bowel cancer increasing with the number of cigarettes smoked per day.
Alcohol can also increase the risk of bowel cancer, and the risk of developing the disease increases with age.
If you have had bowel cancer, you also have an increased risk of having another bowel cancer.