While the majority or bowel cancer cases occur in people over 50, it can strike at a much younger age.
Everyone needs to be aware of the signs and symptoms as early bowel cancer diagnosis is vital.
Symptoms of bowel cancer in men and women can include:
- bleeding from the bottom or blood in your poo
- pain or lump in your abdomen
- unexplained weight loss
- change in your bowel habits that lasts for more than 3 weeks – going more often, looser stools, constipation
- feeling that you have not emptied your bowels properly after you poo
- tiredness or breathlessness caused by lower level of red blood cells
Be bowel cancer aware. Remember your B C A:
B – bleeding from your bottom. Always check after using the toilet
C – change in normal bowel habits that last for more than 3 weeks
A – abdominal pain, acute tiredness, and/or a lump in your tummy
If you experience any of these symptoms over 3 or more weeks, it is really important to speak to your GP as soon as possible.
During the Coronavirus pandemic, your doctor is still available for online chats or phone calls and can arrange tests.
Early diagnosis saves lives so please don’t put off speaking to your GP.
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