Bowel Cancer

What is Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer is cancer that's found anywhere in the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. It is the third most common cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women in the UK with 42,000 cases diagnosed each year. ​ The severity of bowel cancer depends on how big the cancer is and if it has spread. This is why bowel cancer screening is so important as it can be detected in the early stages, often making it easier to treat.​ 

Tests and Treatments for Bowel Cancer

A diagnosis of bowel cancer can be made by examining the colon with a flexible telescope. During the colonoscopy if a cancer is seen a tiny portion of tissue (biopsy) is taken from the cancer for laboratory examination. The procedure isn't painful but can be uncomfortable and patients typically undergo the procedure under sedation.

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Patients may be offered a combination of treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted medicines.  For more information about bowel cancer visit the ACPGBI website.

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