How to detect bowel cancer early

Cancer of the colon and rectum

Bowel cancer develops in the colon or rectum, forming in the lower part of the digestive system. Tumours often begin as small growths called polyps, which may become cancerous if left untreated.

Early stages may have no symptoms

Bowel cancer often produces no noticeable symptoms initially, which is why screening is essential. Patients may feel healthy yet have undetected changes in the bowel. Early detection saves lives.

Polyps can turn cancerous

Detecting polyps before they develop into cancer is a key aspect of how to detect bowel cancer. Removing these polyps early can prevent the disease from progressing to a more
serious stage.

Early detection improves treatment

Finding bowel cancer early allows for more effective and less invasive treatments, improving survival rates and reducing complications from surgery or therapy. It also helps improve
recovery.

Increases survival rates

Diagnosing bowel cancer in its early stages significantly improves survival chances. Patients whose cancers are detected early may have better long-term outcomes. Early detection is key.

Reduces spread to other organs

Detecting cancer before it spreads decreases the risk of secondary cancers in other organs, making management more effective. It also helps improve the chances of treatment success.

Enables less invasive treatment

Early diagnosis allows for simpler treatments and is less taxing on the body. Procedures can often be less extensive, with shorter recovery times. This makes treatment quicker and easier.

Improves long-term quality of life

Patients diagnosed early are more likely to see fewer side effects from treatment and maintain a higher quality of life, showing the importance of knowing how bowel cancer can be detected.

Changes in bowel habits

Persistent constipation, diarrhoea, or narrower stools may indicate a problem. Tracking these changes with a gastroenterologist’s help over time is important.

Persistent abdominal pain or bloating

Ongoing abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating should not be ignored. Patients noticing persistent discomfort should consult a gastroenterologist promptly.

Blood in the stool

The presence of bright red or dark blood in the stool should prompt medical review, as it can signal bowel cancer. Early checks allow quick
treatment.

Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

Sudden weight loss or feeling unusually tired can be an early sign. Knowing how to detect bowel cancer includes recognising these less obvious indicators.

Age over 50

The likelihood of bowel cancer increases with age. Screening is especially recommended for those over 50 to detect cancer early. Regular testing improves survival by catching changes early.

Diet and lifestyle

High consumption of red or processed meats, low fibre intake, regular smoking, and inactivity contribute to bowel cancer risk. Diet, smoking, and inactivity increase bowel cancer risk.

Family history or genetics

Close relatives with bowel cancer increase an individual’s risk. Genetic factors can make early detection vital for high-risk families. Family history heightens risk, so early detection is key.

Personal medical history

A history of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or previous cancers increases the likelihood of developing bowel cancer. This is essential for learning how to detect bowel cancer early.

Contact your GP

Seek medical advice immediately from a doctor if symptoms appear. Your general practitioner can assess the situation and refer you for the appropriate tests.

Discuss family history

Sharing your family history provides context and may affect the recommended screening schedule. This allows doctors to personalise your screening and care.

Track your symptoms

Documenting changes in bowel habits, stool consistency, or abdominal discomfort helps healthcare providers make an accurate diagnosis of your bowel health. 

Follow recommended tests

Completing all suggested screening, including colonoscopies or stool tests, is a vital step in learning how to detect bowel cancer effectively and early.