Bowel cancer is a prevalent type of cancer in the UK, affecting about 11% of all fresh cancer cases. Every year, around 44,000 people are diagnosed with the disease, with fatalities exceeding 16,800.
Ellie Wilcock, who has stage 4 bowel cancer, recently shared her personal story on social media to raise awareness about four warning signs that pointed to her condition. These symptoms include pain in the left-hand side of the tummy and pelvis, fatigue, changes in bowel habits, and a decrease in appetite.
The NHS lists abdominal pain, a detectable lump in the abdomen, and bloating as indicative symptoms of bowel cancer. Fatigue is also mentioned as a symptom, although it can be caused by other conditions. Ellie’s experience highlights the importance of monitoring bowel movements, which she advocates for, saying “Check your poo.”
Early signs of bowel cancer include changes in bowel movement consistency, visible blood in the stool, and frequent urgence to go. The disease can also cause weight loss or changes to appetite. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your GP for advice.
Remember, these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, so if in doubt, seek medical attention. Early detection is crucial in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates for bowel cancer patients.
Source: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/health/woman-stage-4-bowel-cancer-34269712