What do screening tests for bowel cancer consist of?

Read our latest article here to find out the main symptoms and causes of bowel cancer, and what you can do to reduce your chances of being diagnosed with the common cancer.

How common is bowel cancer, and what causes it?

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. Bowel cancer typically develops from precancerous growths called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While not all polyps will become cancerous, some have the potential to develop into bowel cancer over time if left untreated.

What are the main associated risk factors?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer, including age, family history of the disease, personal history of colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in red or processed meats and low in fibre. Individuals with certain genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), may also have an increased risk of developing bowel cancer at a younger age.

What are the main symptoms of bowel cancer?

Common symptoms of bowel cancer may include changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between the two, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels. However, it is essential to note that not all individuals with bowel cancer will experience symptoms, which is why regular screening is recommended for individuals at average risk starting at age 50.

What do screening tests for bowel cancer consist of?

Screening tests for bowel cancer include stool-based tests, such as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which detect blood in the stool, as well as colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualisation of the colon and rectum to identify polyps or early-stage cancers. Treatment for bowel cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, its location, and the patient's overall health. Options may include surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.

How can bowel cancer be best prevented?

Prevention of bowel cancer involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and making dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting consumption of red and processed meats, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and participating in regular screening for early detection.