Bowel Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness about this disease and encourage people to get screened for early detection. Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, affecting both men and women. ​

Symptoms of Bowel Cancer  
The symptoms of bowel cancer can vary, but some common signs include: 

• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than a few days 

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding 
• Abdominal pain or cramping that doesn't go away 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Fatigue or weakness 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. 

Screening Tests for Bowel Cancer  
The good news is that bowel cancer is highly treatable if caught early. Screening tests can detect the disease before symptoms appear, and early detection is key to successful treatment. The most common screening tests for bowel cancer include: 

• Colonoscopy: a comprehensive screening test that involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to examine the colon and rectum for signs of cancer or precancerous growths called polyps. 
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): a simple test that checks for blood in the stool. It can be done at home with a kit provided by your doctor or healthcare provider. 

• Stool DNA test: a newer test that looks for DNA changes in stool samples that may indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous growths. 

How to Use a Bowel Screening Test  
The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a simple test that checks for blood in the stool. It can be done at home, with a kit that you will receive in the post (if you are between the ages of 60 – 74).  
Here's how to use a bowel screening test: 

1. Read the instructions provided carefully before you start. 

1. Collect a small sample of stool using the kit provided. 

1. Follow the instructions to prepare the sample and return it to your doctor or healthcare provider. 

1. Wait for the results to come back and follow up with your doctor as recommended. 

 
Prevention Measures for Bowel Cancer  
While there is no surefire way to prevent bowel cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, including: 

• Eat a healthy diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 
• Drink plenty of water 
• Maintain a healthy weight. 

• Exercise regularly. 
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. 

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Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is a time to educate yourself and others about this important issue. By spreading the word about screening and prevention, we can help reduce the impact of bowel cancer on individuals and communities. So, take the time to talk to your loved ones about bowel cancer and encourage them to get screened. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against this disease. To request a test, click the link: www.nhs.wales/screening