Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 1-30 June.
June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer.
Key statistics
In 2022, it was estimated that 15,713 people would be diagnosed with bowel cancer in Australia (8,300 males and 7,413 females).
There were an estimated 5,326 deaths from colorectal cancer in 2022 (2,839 males and 2,487 females).
Bowel cancer was the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2018.
Nearly 5,367 Australians die annually from bowel cancer, including 8,133 males and 7,234 females, averaging 103 deaths per week.
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer starts as benign growths called polyps on the bowel's wall or lining. While most polyps are harmless, adenomatous polyps can become malignant and develop into cancerous tumors if left undetected. In advanced cases, the tumor can spread to other organs.
Importance of early detection
Cancer Australia states, "Almost 99% of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully when detected early." Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates.
Prevention
Risk factors for bowel cancer
Non-modifiable risk factors
Non-modifiable risk factors i.e factors that you CAN’T change.
Personal history of certain cancers
History of polyps
(for more info, click on each.)
Modifiable risk factors
Modifiable risk factors i.e. factors that you can change.
Alcohol consumption
Aspirin use
Body fatness
Dairy products and calcium supplements
Physical activity
Polyp removal
Red and processed meat consumption
Smoking
Wholegrains and dietary fibre
01 - Blood in your stools or rectal - bleeding.
02 - A recent, persistent change in bowel habit (e.g. diarrhea, constipation or the feeling of incomplete emptying.)
03 - A change in the shape or appearance of your stools (e.g. narrower poos or mucus in poo.)
04 - Abdominal pain or swelling.
05 - Pain or a lump.
06 - Unexplained anemia causing tiredness, weakness, or weight loss.'
During the early stages of bowel cancer, people may have no symptoms, which is why screening is so important.
How is bowel cancer diagnosed?
If someone experiences symptoms of bowel cancer for two weeks or longer, their GP should refer them to a specialist for a colonoscopy within 30 days. Even without symptoms, a positive result from an at-home screening test called a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) should prompt a referral to a specialist for a colonoscopy within 30 days for further investigation.
Screening and prevention
Bowel Cancer Australia recommends participating in screening appropriate to your personal level of risk.
For people at average risk of bowel cancer and without symptoms, Australian medical guidelines recommend screening using a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) every 2 years between ages 45-74.
The guidelines state a healthcare professional could consider offering a faecal immunochemical test every 2 years to people aged 40-44 who request screening, after being fully informed of the benefits and potential harms of testing.
Similarly, the guidelines state a healthcare professional could consider offering a faecal immunochemical test every 2 years to people aged 75-85 who are fit, well and healthy and request screening, after being fully informed of the benefits and potential harms of testing.
To find out how to do a screen test, click here.
In conclusion
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is a vital time to increase knowledge and encourage early detection of the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia.
Early detection is crucial. Participate in regular screenings and encourage others to do the same. By staying informed and making healthier lifestyle choices, we can help reduce the impact of bowel cancer. Together, let's spread awareness and take action for better health.