Read press release Spot bowel cancer early
Watch our video to find out more about the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, and why spotting bowel cancer early is important.
At the bottom of the page, you can see the full-length video.
View a transcript of the full Spot bowel cancer early video.
Look out for:
- bleeding from the back passage without a reason
- a persistent change in your bowel habit towards looser or more frequent bowel motions
- bloating, swelling, pain or an unexplained lump in the tummy
- tiredness or looking pale
If you have any of these symptoms for more than four to six weeks, you should make an appointment to see your GP. Most of these symptoms won’t be due to bowel cancer but it’s better to be on the safe side.
If they are signs of bowel cancer, the earlier they are picked up, the greater the chance of successful treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, get them checked out.
For help registering with a GP, visit www.nhs.uk or call 0845 46 47.
“"Go to the doctor's on time. If you have any cause for concern, anything to do with your bowel or bottom, don't be embarrassed about it but have it checked out". ”
Nirmala De Silva, bowel cancer survivor
Reducing your risk of bowel cancer
There’s a lot that you can do to reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer in the first place, including:
- keeping a healthy weight
- being physically active
- eating a healthy diet high in fibre, fruit and vegetables and low in red and processed meat.
- drinking less alcohol
- stopping smoking
View a transcript of the full Spot bowel cancer early video.
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- Healthy Living
Information about reducing the risk of cancer - Bowel cancer screening
- Our impact on bowel cancer
- CancerHelp UK
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