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This type of cancer is common in the UK, with around 42,300 people diagnosed each year. Both sexes are susceptible to bowel cancer and early treatment is necessary for long term survival. Cancer Research UK has noted symptoms of bowel cancer that can be found in both men and women. Be careful if you suffer from a slight stomach ache, as abdominal pain is a possible sign of the disease; there may also be a lump felt in the right side of the abdomen.
Three other signs of bowel cancer include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
“See your GP if you are concerned about any symptoms that you think could be caused by bowel cancer,” Cancer Research UK said.
When you visit your GP because of worrying symptoms, these tips can help you get the most out of your appointment.
- Write down your symptoms, when they started, when they occur and how often
- Anything that makes them worse or better
- Tell your doctor if you are concerned about cancer
- Tell them if there is a family history of cancer
- Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand
During the visit, the doctor may perform a rectal exam – when a gloved finger is placed in the back passage to check for any abnormalities.
“Obesity is a cause of bowel cancer,” Cancer Research UK warned; obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more.
Smoking is also linked to the disease, with the risk of bowel cancer increasing with the number of cigarettes smoked per day.
Alcohol can also increase the risk of bowel cancer, and the risk of developing the disease increases with age.
If you have ever had bowel cancer, you are also at increased risk for other bowel cancer.
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