Don't Ignore the Warning Signs: Early Detection is Key to Beating Bowel Cancer


Cancer rates are rising globally, with colorectal (bowel) cancer being a type that affects the large intestine. Colon cancer usually starts as small clumps of cells in the lining of the large bowel and may not cause symptoms for a long time. By the time symptoms arise, the cancer is often advanced. Dr. Shyam Varadarajulu, Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai; Dr. Mo Thoufeeq, Senior Consultant and GI Endoscopist, South Yorkshire Endoscopy Network Chair; Dr. K R Palaniswamy, Senior Consultant and Head, Apollo Hospitals Chennai; Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Group; Dr. P Basumani, Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai; and Dr. Kartik, Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai, along with other doctors were present on the occasion.

Symptoms of bowel cancer include diarrhea, constipation, changes in stool shape, urgency to pass stools, blood in stools, tummy pain and bloating, weight loss, and anemia with weakness. Early detection of colon cancer can lead to successful treatment through surgery and supportive care.

Preventive measures include maintaining an ideal body weight, regular exercise, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol and red meat consumption, avoiding processed foods, and increasing vegetable and fruit intake. Screening for bowel cancer is also vital when there are no symptoms, particularly for those with a family history of bowel or related cancers or those with certain medical conditions.

Screening can be performed using stool tests, CT scans, or direct examinations like sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. These methods allow doctors to find and remove polyps before they develop into cancer. 

Raising awareness among the public and health professionals is crucial to diagnose bowel cancer early. Individuals should not hesitate to discuss bowel symptoms and should consult their doctor if symptoms persist for over six weeks. Health care professionals should consider referrals to specialists in certain situations involving persistent symptoms or abnormal findings.

The mission is to educate the public on the rising incidence of bowel cancer and promote screening to detect and treat the condition early.

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