Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a common cancer, particularly in older individuals. It is the fourth most common cancer in the UK.

While more prevalent in those over 50, it can affect people of all ages, with a concerning increase in diagnoses among those under 50

Bowel cancer is more common in older people by can occur at any age. An early diagnosis means that a cancer is more likely to be successfully treated.

If you have any of the following symptom you should consult your doctor urgently:

• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days
• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved by having one
• Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
• Blood in the stool, which may make the stool look dark
• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
• Weakness and fatigue
• Unintended weight loss

Colorectal cancers can often bleed into the digestive tract. Sometimes the blood can be seen in the stool or make it look darker, but often the stool looks normal. But over time, the blood loss can build up and can lead to low red blood cell counts (anaemia). Sometimes the first sign of colorectal cancer is a blood test showing a low red blood cell count.

Many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than colorectal cancer, such as infection, haemorrhoids, or irritable bowel syndrome. Still, if you have any of these problems, it’s important to see your doctor right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.

Bowel cancer can occur anywhere in the colon the end part of the digestive tract.