Rookie driver takes to track for bowel cancer awareness

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, Bowel Cancer Australia's annual awareness-raising initiative.

Because bowel cancer often develops without any warning signs, screening can help reduce its incidence by detecting blood in the stool, which could indicate a precancerous lesion or existing cancer.

"When followed up by timely colonoscopy, cases of bowel cancer can be effectively treated 99 per cent of the time," said colorectal surgeon Dr Graham Newstead.

Craig Jenner from Melbourne was diagnosed at the age of 45. Following surgery, he underwent six months of chemotherapy, but the cancer returned six years later and has now spread from the bowel to his liver and lymph nodes.

Although his father had bowel cancer, Craig didn't realise it put him at an increased risk and didn't get checked.

The business owner and father of three is now dedicating himself to raising awareness about the importance of screening and raising funds to support Bowel Cancer Australia.

"Bowel cancer is a silent killer. Put yourself first. Get checked," said Craig, who recently made his first circuit racing appearance with his Mazda BT50 at the Haltech V8 SuperUte Series race at The Bend Motorsport Park in Tailem Bend in May.

His ute was emblazoned with the ribbons of eight cancer charities, including Bowel Cancer Australia.

Bowel cancer risk is increased by smoking, eating an excessive amount of red meat (especially charred), eating processed meats, drinking alcohol, and being overweight or obese. Age, family history, hereditary conditions and personal health history can also influence risk.

Speak to your GP if you experience possible symptoms for two weeks or more. This can include rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, changes in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness, and/or a lump or swelling in your abdomen.