How to check for early signs of bowel cancer?

bowel cancer
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Checking your poo while in the loo could save your life.

Changes in your toilet habits can be early signs of bowel cancer. Poo checks may not be something that you do on a daily basis- or want to do- but here at SmartClinics we highly recommend you make them a part of your weekly self-care routine. If found early, Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer which is why we have created an easy-to-follow guide to help you to identify any early signs or symptoms.

How often should I check my poo?

 

Bowel habits are different for each person and can be anywhere between three times a day to three times a week. Only you can know what is normal for you. Given that there is anywhere between 3 and 21 visits to the toilet a week, we suggest you pick one and follow our poo check below. It’s that simple.

What is bowel cancer?

 

Bowel cancer starts in the bowel, affecting any part of the colon or rectum – and without detection can spread to other organs.
Most bowel cancers begin as non-threatening (benign) growths, known as polyps, on the wall or lining of the bowel. Polyps are usually harmless, however they can become cancerous (malignant) if left undetected and can become life-threatening tumours.

Prevention is our No1 priority. Self check + GP check = diagnosis + treatment

How common is bowel cancer?

 

It is Australia’s second deadliest form of cancer. It is very common!
Each week 80 Australians die from bowel cancer, claiming the lives of approximately 5,375 Australians every year.
About 1,400 people diagnosed are under the age of 40.
You are never too young to have bowel cancer, which is why regular self-checks are essential to stay in optimum health.

Is bowel cancer treatable?

 

Yes, early diagnosis and treatment is possible.
If you can identify with what is normal and NOT normal with your bowel movements, you will be able to recognise any unusual signs that can be assessed by your local GP here at SmartClinics.
Only YOU know what is a healthy poo and a normal toilet activity – for YOUR body.

How do I check for bowel cancer?

 

When you think about how long you spend on the toilet every day, an extra two seconds for a poo check should not be an inconvenience. It is a vital part of your self-care routine.

The next time you visit the loo, check for these 4 top toilet troubles..

 

  • Are there any changes in your bowel habits, such as needing to go to the toilet more frequently?
  • Is this combined with looser or more diarrhoea like stools?
  • Is there blood in your poo or sudden rectal bleeding?
  • Is there a change in the appearance of your poo, such as mucus or narrower?

Are any of these symptoms occurring at the same time as:

 

  • Unexplained anaemia causing tiredness, weakness or weight loss
  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Not all of these symptoms indicate bowel cancer, as medications or lifestyle may affect your bodies changing habits.
  • However, if any of the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you must see your local GP to discuss these changes.

How do you test for bowel cancer?

 

Your GP will discuss with you the best options based on your age, family history, hereditary conditions and personal health.

There are two common tests to diagnose bowel cancer.

  • Screening. From the age of 45 our GP’s can offer an in-home screening test called a Feacal Immunochemical Test (FIT). This involves taking a small sample of poo and sending it to a pathology laboratory. This test checks for blood in your samples. The results given to you by your GP, will determine the next steps.
  • Colonoscopy. In order to take a look inside of your bowel and make a confirmed assessment, a colonoscopy is performed under local anaesthetic at a hospital. It is a short process and involves a thin tube featuring a tiny camera, checking inside your bowel for any polyps or unusual growths.

Our GP will follow up with results and a treatment plan if needed. At Smart Clinics we take care of you during this discreet process and walk you through every step of your testing and treatment journey.

Is it possible to reduce the risk of bowel cancer?

 

Yes. Combining your lifestyle habits with screening and self check-ups can influence the outcome of bowel cancer.

Lifestyle habits you can modify:

 

  • Quit smoking.
  • If you choose to drink alcohol, limit your intake.
  • Avoid a diet of processed meats and moderate your red meat consumption.

Lifestyle habits for optimum health:

 

  • Eat wholegrains and other natural high fibre foods.
  • Ensure daily physical activity is a part of your routine.
  • Take control of your health by taking regular bowel cancer screenings.
  • We know that bowel cancer is treatable if it is discovered early. The good news is that you can start checking today.

At SmartClinics, a GP is available to talk to you about any bowel cancer concerns you may have. Get to KNOW THE SIGNS so that you can self-assess and take control of your health at all times.

Our GP’s are always here to listen and discuss any health concerns you may have.

Click here and make an appointment now.

We know that bowel cancer is treatable if it is discovered early. The good news is that you can start checking today.  At SmartClinics, a GP is available to talk to you about any bowel cancer concerns you may have. Get to KNOW THE SIGNS so that you can self-assess and take control of your health at all times.

Our GP’s are always here to listen and discuss any health concerns you may have. 

Click here and make an appointment now.