MILLIONS are at risk of bowel cancer with almost half of the UK unable to name any symptoms of the killer disease.
Bowel cancer is the UK’s fourth most common cancer and the second deadliest.
Today marks the start of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, with Bowel Cancer UK keen to make sure Brits know the warning signs.
The five main symptoms of people who go on to be diagnosed with it are blood in your stools, a change of bowel habits, pain in your stomach, weight loss and unexplained fatigue.
Only a third of people surveyed knew that bloody stools are a sign of cancer.
Women proved better than men at recognising any symptoms of bowel cancer.
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Loose Women anchor and Bowel Cancer UK patron Charlene White, said: “It’s been 20 years since I lost my mum to bowel cancer when she was just 47.
“There have been many advances in treatments in that time but it’s vital that people recognise the symptoms and act on them.
“People whose cancer is diagnosed at an early stage have a much higher chance of successful treatment than those whose cancer has become more widespread.
“If you have any symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them.”
Bowel cancer is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.
Nearly everyone diagnosed at the earliest stage will survive bowel cancer but this drops significantly as the disease develops.
Knowing the key symptoms and visiting your GP if you have any of them, or if things don’t feel right, can help increase the chances of an early diagnosis.
Dr Philippa Kaye, GP, author and bowel cancer patient, added: “As both a GP and someone who has had bowel cancer, I completely understand it can be daunting visiting your GP with symptoms.
“However it is so important that you book an appointment as early as possible – please don’t feel embarrassed, don’t ignore any symptoms and don’t put it off.
“As GPs we are used to seeing lots of people with bowel problems and if you are worried that something is wrong we want to see you. Early diagnosis could save your life.”
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer, affecting both men and women.
Every 15 minutes someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer. That’s nearly 43,000 people every year, nearly 120 people every day.
Dr Lisa Wilde, Director of Research and External Affairs at Bowel Cancer UK says: “Bowel cancer remains the UK’s second biggest cancer killer, and it’s shocking that people aren’t aware of the symptoms to look out for.
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“If you notice any signs of bowel cancer, or if things just don’t feel right for you, please visit your GP.
“While the disease largely affects people over the age of 50, more than 2,600 under 50s are diagnosed each year, so it’s really important people seek advice as soon as possible – whatever their age – if they’re worried.”
