Bowel cancer sign that can be 'persistent' but 'subtle' as early diagnosis could save lives

29.01.2022 - 20:09 / dailyrecord.co.uk

Persistent but subtle changes to your bowel movements could be a sign of cancer.

Over 42,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK every single year, according to Bowel Cancer UK.

There are a number of signs of the disease and if the cancer is spotted early there are often greater chances of survival.

Bowel Cancer UK explained that bowel cancer is a treatable and curable type of the disease "especially if diagnosed early".

Unfortunately, survival rates begin to fall as the disease is allowed to develop - reports The Express.

Doctor Belinda Griffiths GP who does cancer screenings from The Fleet Street Clinic, has outlined a number of signs.

She said: “The symptoms of bowel cancer can be subtle and can often be confused with symptoms of other, less serious illnesses.

“It is important to note that the majority of people with these symptoms do not have bowel cancer but symptoms should not be ignored just in case it is.”

The GP states: “You should highlight concerns and symptoms which are present for longer than three-weeks to your doctor so they can investigate the cause.

“Delaying investigation could result in bowel cancer being diagnosed at a later stage.”

Doctor Belinda said that persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit such as having more frequent bowel movements, constipation, or having looser stools, lasting for longer than six week is a common sign.

Bowel Cancer UK says that one in 15 men and one in 18 women will be diagnosed with bowel cancer during their lifetime. The charity says: “If you have any symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them.”

The NHS explains: "When you first see a GP, they'll ask about your symptoms and whether you have a family history of bowel cancer."

According to the