A general surgeon has highlighted five early warning signs of bowel cancer that are often overlooked, stressing that early detection can significantly improve outcomes. The surgeon, Ali Cadili, urged the public to act promptly on subtle changes during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second leading cause of cancer death. Around 46,600 new cases are diagnosed annually, with about 17,700 deaths. Approximately 54% of cases are preventable through lifestyle changes, but only 14% are caught at Stage 1, while nearly 30% are diagnosed at Stage 4.
The five red-flag signs include: rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits (narrower, looser, or mucus-coated stools), unexplained abdominal pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss, and unexplained fatigue or anaemia. The surgeon noted that symptoms like blood in stool, pain that wakes you at night, or weight loss with bowel changes warrant urgent medical review.
Diagnoses in people under 50 have risen from 6.4% to 8.0% in recent years, a concerning trend. The surgeon emphasised that ignoring these signs could delay treatment, especially in younger adults where bleeding is often dismissed as haemorrhoids.
Early detection is life-saving, and the public is encouraged to consult a GP if they notice any of these persistent symptoms. Lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation can reduce risk.
