Published on 22 April 2021
April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and CMCA’s Primary Care Lead, Dr Debbie Harvey, is warning people to watch for the signs of the disease.
Bowel cancer can be treated and cured if diagnosed early and being aware of the possible symptoms and signs of bowel cancer can help increase the chances of an early diagnosis and could save your life.
The symptoms of bowel cancer can include:
- Bleeding from your bottom and/or blood in your poo
- A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit such as loose poo, pooing more often or constipation
- Needing to strain when you have already opened your bowels
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling breathless and/or tired for no obvious reason
- A pain or lump in your tummy or back passage
Dr Harvey said: “Keeping an eye out for any of these symptoms could help us spot bowel cancer earlier. Although most people with these symptoms don't have bowel cancer, it’s best to be safe and get them checked out.
“This is important even if you have had a recent negative bowel screening test.”
Dr Graeme Allan, clinical lead for cancer at NHS Southport and Formby CCG added: “If you develop one or more of these symptoms, make an appointment to discuss them with your GP.
“If you are also eligible for bowel cancer screening, make sure you complete your home test every two years when it gets sent out to you.”
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