Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a significant health concern affecting millions of people globally. It primarily develops in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine, and is often curable if detected early. It’s important to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of bowel cancer and to attend regular screenings.
Recognising the symptoms of bowel cancer is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. However, the symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues. Here are some common signs to be aware of:
1. Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, can indicate bowel cancer. If these changes last more than a few weeks, it is essential to have further investigations.
2. Blood in the Stool: One of the most alarming symptoms is blood in the stool. This can appear as bright red blood or darker, tarry stools. While haemorrhoids or other conditions can also cause bleeding, it is critical to rule out bowel cancer.
3. Abdominal Discomfort: Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating may signal bowel cancer. This discomfort might be caused by a tumour obstructing the bowel.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss can be a sign of various cancers, including bowel cancer. If you are losing weight without changes to your diet or exercise routine come to see Dr Ruhil so that she can investigate the cause of the weight loss.
5. Fatigue: Chronic fatigue and weakness can result from the cancer itself or from anaemia caused by bleeding in the digestive tract.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing bowel cancer. Understanding these risk factors can help in taking preventive measures:
1. Age: The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, particularly after 50. However, there is an increasing incidence of young-onset bowels cancer cases recently, making it essential for younger individuals to be aware of symptoms and risk factors.
2. Family History: A family history of bowel cancer or certain inherited conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome, significantly raises the risk.
3. Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is associated with a higher risk of bowel cancer. Diets that lack fibre can also contribute to digestive health issues.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer. Regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle can mitigate some of these risks.
5. Medical Conditions: Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer. Additionally, type 2 diabetes is also considered a risk factor.
6. Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for many types of cancer, including bowel cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is essential for reducing cancer risk.
While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle modifications and screening practices that can help prevent bowel cancer:
1. Regular Screenings: Screening tests, such as colonoscopies, are vital for detecting bowel cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Regular screenings are recommended starting at age 50, or earlier for those with higher risk. These tests can also identify precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they develop into cancer.
2. Healthy Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower the risk of bowel cancer. Foods high in fiber, such as legumes, whole grains, and fresh produce, promote a healthy digestive system.
3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of bowel cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week.
4. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are essential steps in cancer prevention. These habits are linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including bowel cancer.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
6. Manage Medical Conditions: Proper management of chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes is crucial.
Regular check-ups and following treatment plans can help minimise the risk of complications, including bowel cancer. It is possible to reduce your risk and catch bowel cancer early. Pay attention to your body, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and prioritise regular screenings. By doing so, you can take control of your health and potentially save your life or the lives of loved ones. Remember, early detection is key, and taking preventive steps can make a significant difference. Stay informed, stay healthy, and encourage those around you to do the same.
If you are concerned about bowel cancer, have any signs or symptoms you are worried about or want to undergo screening, book an appointment or for more information, contact us at +971 50 494 6377 to arrange an appointment with Prof. Dr Giovanni Leonetti (gastroenterologist) or Dr Ruhil Badiani (family physician) at Cornerstone Clinic.
Prof. Dr. Giovanni Leonetti is a licensed general surgeon who obtained his medical degree at the University of Rome “La Sapienza”, where he also received his PhD in Advanced Technologies in Surgery. He teaches Gastroenterology at Unicamillus Health University of Rome.
During his career, he has refined the most modern and advanced diagnostic and therapeutic upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy techniques for treating diseases affecting the digestive system.
Dr Ruhil Badiani is a British doctor, who studied, graduated and practised in London for 10 years, before moving out to Dubai. Dr Ruhil Badiani has experience in treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. She values the patient doctor relationship and recognises the importance of psychological and social factors, as well as the physical factors, which contribute to a patient’s presentation. She recognises the importance of lifestyle changes to improve health and prevent disease, and is confident in the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic disease.
