Print this pageBowel Cancer - Early detection is vital
In Australia around 90 men and women die each week from bowel cancer. Australia has one of the highest incidence of bowel cancer in the world.
With 4,517 new cases and 1,610 deaths, bowel cancer was the second most common cancer for both sexes combined and the second most common cause of cancer death in NSW during 2004.
Survival rates are significantly improved when the disease is detected and treated early.
So make sure you
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Know the symptoms of bowel cancer |
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Understand the risk factors associated with bowel cancer |
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Consult your doctor if you notice the symptoms, are concerned about risk factors or want to discuss screening options. |
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Take preventative measures such as eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, cereals and whole grains and maintaining a healthy weight and being physically activity. |
Shirley’s story
Shirley is now in her 70’s and was diagnosed with bowel cancer when she was 50. Her story highlights the importance of early detection.
Symptoms
The symptoms of bowel cancer can be similar to symptoms of other conditions or diseases and may include the following:
- Change in bowel habits – recent and persistent changes in someone who previously had been regular. Symptoms may include constipation, diarrhoea or passing mucous material
- Blood or black material in the bowel motion or any sign of bleeding from the rectum
- Abdominal pain, bloating, discomfort, fullness or cramps
- Unexplained tiredness
It is important if you notice any of the above symptoms you see your doctor, it may not be bowel cancer, but if cancer is present your chances of survival are much greater if it is discovered sooner rather than later. Early detection is vital.
Risk factors
Those people most at risk:
- are aged 50 years and over - risk increases with age;
- have a significant family history of bowel cancer or polyps;
- have had an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis; or
- have previously had special types of polyps, called adenomas, in the bowel.
People at risk of bowel cancer should talk to their doctor about the most appropriate screening options.
The risk is also increased in obese people, and those with a diet high in animal fats, red or processed meats. Tobacco consumption or heavy alcohol consumption may also increase the risk.
Screening
Men and women over 50 should get checked for bowel cancer every two years.
A test called a Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) can detect small amounts of blood in the bowel motion. The FOBT looks for blood in the bowel motion, but not for bowel cancer itself. Screening using a FOBT test kit is recommended as a simple non-invasive process that can be done in the privacy of your home.
If you turn 55 or 65 between 2006 and June 2008 you should receive an invitation to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program run by the Australian Government. For more information on the national program visit their website www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/bowel-1lp
If you are over 50 or have additional risk factors talk, to your doctor about getting screened for bowel cancer.
Prevention
Around 30 to 40 per cent of all cancer cases could be prevented by making healthier choices. These include stop smoking, limit alcohol, have a normal weight and eat a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, fish and fruit.
The Cancer Prevention Plan was published by the Cancer Institute NSW to assist in making healthier choices. Visit www.cancerinstitute.org.au/publications to view a copy of the plan.
Bowel Cancer Awareness Campaign Q&A 
More information about bowel cancer can be found at
National Cancer Institute (USA) www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/screening/colon-and-rectal
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/bw-facts