Don’t delay contacting a GP if you have symptoms of bowel cancer, say county doctors - The Worcester Observer

Don’t delay contacting a GP if you have symptoms of bowel cancer, say county doctors

Worcester Editorial 2nd May, 2021   0

Don’t delay contacting a GP if you have signs and symptoms of bowel cancer – that’s the message from local family doctors.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK, and this month being Bowel Cancer Awareness month, they say it’s important to highlight that more than 100 people are diagnosed with it every day.

GPs say bowel cancer is very treatable but the earlier it’s diagnosed, the easier it is to treat.

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.




The early signs of bowel cancer can vary and are not very clear. However, they can include:

A change in bowel habit (diarrhoea or constipation) for more than two weeks


Bleeding from the back passage

Loss of weight or appetite

Lasting abdominal pain/unusual lump

A feeling of not having emptied your bowel properly after a bowel motion

Dr Alison Riley, Macmillan Cancer GP facilitator for Worcestershire, said: “If you have any signs and symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them. Doctors are used to seeing lots of people with bowel problems.

“If you notice a change in your bowel movement which isn’t normal for you or have a symptom that doesn’t settle it may be important to arrange further investigations to exclude serious problems such as cancer.

“The symptom might not be due to serious illness and your GP may be able to easily reassure you. If it is cancer or another serious problem, the earlier it’s picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment.

“When you arrange an appointment with your GP they will initially telephone you to discuss the problem, and then bring you in to be examined or have blood tests if needed. If necessary they will refer you to the hospital.”

More information on cancer signs and symptoms can be found by clicking here.

GP and hospital services in Worcestershire have robust infection prevention measures to ensure patients can safely access services, so people are urged not to delay contacting a GP or seeking treatment if they have any symptoms.

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