Bowel Cancer

Key Points

Overview

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, refers to cancer that starts in the large bowel, which consists of the colon and rectum. It is a significant health concern worldwide, being one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers. The exact cause of bowel cancer is not always clear, but it often develops from small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the bowel. Factors like age, genetics, diet, and lifestyle choices can increase the risk of these polyps becoming cancerous over time. Management typically involves a combination of diagnostic tests to confirm the presence and stage of the cancer, followed by various treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Support and follow-up care are also essential parts of the treatment journey.

Signs and Symptoms

• Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
• A persistent change in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme tiredness without clear reason
• Abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating

Things That Increase the Risk

• Older age (most cases are over 50)
• Family history of bowel cancer or polyps
• Diet high in red and processed meats
• Obesity and lack of physical activity
• Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis

Diagnosis

• Stool tests (e.g., FIT test) to detect blood
• Colonoscopy to examine the entire large bowel
• Biopsy of suspicious areas during colonoscopy
• CT scan or MRI to check for spread
• Blood tests to assess general health and markers

Treatment & Management

• Surgery to remove the cancerous part of the bowel
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
• Radiotherapy to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors
• Targeted therapy using drugs that attack specific cancer cells
• Immunotherapy to boost the body's immune response

Prevention

• Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Limit red and processed meat intake
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption
• Participate in recommended screening programs

Related Diseases

• Colorectal Polyps
• Crohn's Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Bowel Cancer:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Bowel Cancer: