In a candid and deeply personal health revelation, ITV's beloved Lorraine regular Dr Amir Khan has shared the critical symptom that prompted his own bowel cancer diagnosis, issuing an urgent warning to the British public.
The GP and television personality disclosed that a persistent and seemingly minor change in his bowel habits was the red flag he couldn't ignore. While filming for a segment, Dr Khan experienced a sudden, overwhelming urge to go to the toilet, a symptom that became frighteningly frequent.
A Doctor's Own Diagnosis
Despite his medical expertise, Dr Khan admitted to initially dismissing the signs. "I'm a doctor and I didn't spot the signs of bowel cancer for about six to eight months," he confessed. His symptoms escalated to include bleeding, at which point he knew immediate action was necessary.
His subsequent colonoscopy revealed a tumour, leading to a swift diagnosis and surgery within a mere two weeks—a timeline he acknowledges was drastically faster than what most NHS patients experience due to current systemic pressures.
An Urgent Plea to the Public
Dr Khan's message is clear: do not hesitate. He is now using his platform to emphasise the importance of recognising key symptoms, which include:
- A persistent change in bowel habits, such as going more frequently or with looser stools.
- Blood in your stool without an obvious cause like piles.
- Unexplained abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating that always comes after eating.
- Unexplained weight loss or extreme fatigue.
"If you have any of the symptoms… please go to your GP and get it checked out," he urged. "Don't be embarrassed. We're doctors, we talk about these things all day long."
The Reality of NHS Waiting Times
While Dr Khan received rapid treatment, he expressed profound concern for patients facing agonising delays. He highlighted the severe impact of NHS waiting lists, acknowledging that his position likely expedited his care—a privilege not afforded to everyone.
His story serves as a powerful double-edged sword: a success story for early detection and a stark reminder of the healthcare inequalities within the UK system.
