A leading doctor has issued an urgent warning about six specific symptoms of colon cancer that should never be dismissed. With bowel cancer being the fourth most common cancer in the UK, recognising these signs early could be life-saving.
The Alarming Statistics Behind Bowel Cancer
Cancer Research UK reports that approximately 44,100 people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer in the colon or rectum each year. While Macmillan Cancer Support notes the disease is more prevalent in older adults, concerningly, cases among people under 50 are rising.
Dr Sana Sadoxai, a medical professional with a significant following on TikTok where she shares health advice, has highlighted six critical symptoms that warrant immediate medical consultation.
The Six Symptoms You Must Not Ignore
Dr Sadoxai's list includes symptoms that many might dismiss as minor digestive issues, but which could indicate something more serious.
The six key symptoms are:
- Constipation or diarrhoea that feels unusual or persistent
- Pencil-thin stools that do not return to normal
- Unexplained weight loss, even if unintended
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Visible blood in the toilet or on toilet paper
- A constant sensation that your bowels haven't completely emptied
The doctor emphasised that while these symptoms don't automatically mean cancer, "catching it early can truly save your life."
Public Response and Risk Factors
Following Dr Sadoxai's advice, many TikTok users shared their personal experiences in the comments section. One individual reported visiting their doctor eight times with multiple symptoms, only to be sent away with medication for acid reflux.
Another user described experiencing bloating and pain after eating as their primary symptoms. A third comment provided valuable perspective, noting they had most symptoms except weight loss, but after comprehensive testing including a colonoscopy, were diagnosed with internal haemorrhoids rather than cancer.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, while the exact causes of colon cancer remain unknown, several risk factors increase likelihood of developing the disease:
- Age: Around 40% of UK bowel cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged 75 and older
- Diet: High consumption of red and processed meat, coupled with low fibre intake
- Weight: Being overweight increases risk, particularly in men
- Physical inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to higher risk
- Alcohol: Approximately 6% of UK cases are linked to alcohol consumption
- Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor
- Family history: Risk increases when several close relatives have had the disease
- Inflammatory bowel conditions: Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (not IBS)
- Type 2 diabetes: This condition elevates bowel cancer risk
Diagnosis and Screening in the UK
Anyone concerned about potential colon cancer symptoms should consult their GP immediately. A general practitioner will typically conduct an abdominal examination to check for unusual lumps or swelling and may refer patients to a specialist.
Hospital tests can include colonoscopy procedures, biopsies, and blood samples. The NHS offers routine bowel screening every two years for people aged 50 to 74, except in Northern Ireland where the programme begins at age 60. This involves a stool sample kit delivered by post.
Some colon cancer cases are identified in hospital after admission for unrelated issues, such as bowel obstructions. The consistent message from healthcare professionals remains clear: never ignore persistent changes in bowel habits or the other symptoms highlighted, and always seek professional medical advice promptly.
