KNOW the symptoms. That's the message of a national campaign to fight bowel cancer this June.
Bowel cancer is Australia's second-biggest cancer killer, with 80 people dying from the disease every week.
And this June, Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is spreading the message that the disease is one of the most treatable cancers if found in time, and early detection can save lives.
During the month, people all over Australia are being urged to spread the word and raise awareness of the disease.
Bowel Cancer Australia health promotions officer Maria McEnery said it is important for everyone to know the symptoms.
"It's vitally important to recognise possible signs of bowel cancer and have them investigated if they persist," Ms McEnery said.
She said while not everyone experiences symptoms, it is important to look out for a persistent change in bowel habit, blood in the bowel movement, or rectal bleeding, abdominal pain (especially if severe) and unexplained tiredness, weakness or weight loss.
"These symptoms can also be due to other medical conditions, some foods or medicines," Ms McEnery said.
"However, if you are experiencing any of the above for more than two weeks, see your GP immediately.
"Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer if found early, which is why it is so essential that people see their GP immediately if they experience symptoms suggestive of bowel cancer or if their screening result comes back positive."
Colorectal surgeon and Bowel Cancer Australia director, Associate Professor Graham Newstead, said when it comes to bowel cancer risk for the over-50s, "doing nothing is not an option".
"The risk of developing bowel cancer rises sharply and progressively from age 50," he said.
"That's why it's important to know the symptoms of bowel cancer and have them investigated if they persist for more than two weeks."
With the majority of Australians diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 50 and over, Dr Newstead urges seniors to talk to their GP about how to minimise their risk.
"But the good news is that when detected early, 90 per cent of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully," he said.
This may mean doing a bowel cancer screening test (Faecal Immunochemical Test or FIT) every one to two years, or a colonoscopy (if you are at an above average risk of developing the disease).
Dr Newstead said while certain risk factors can't be changed, some diet and lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk.
These include:
- Quit smoking
- Avoid processed meats and limit red meat consumption
- Avoid weight gain and/or increases in waist circumference
- If you drink alcohol, limit the amount
- Eat naturally high-fibre foods
- Be physically active as part of your everyday life
- Participate in bowel cancer screening
- If you carry an increased risk, speak to your GP about ongoing monitoring
Bowel Cancer Australia Helpline 1800-555-494
www.bowelcanceraustralia.org
