Bowel cancer: ‘Don’t sit on your symptoms’

People under the age of 50 in Somerset are being urged not to ignore changes in their bowel habits, as figures show an unexplained rise in bowel cancer cases.

Paul Mackey (pictured), a colorectal surgeon at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton and Clinical Director of the hospital’s private wing, Parkside, says there is no clear explanation for the rise in cases among younger people, both men and women.

But he says anyone who is experiencing changes in their bowel habits – especially if they are passing a lot of blood – needs to get it checked.

“The problem is we don’t like talking about poo! We’d rather ignore it. But my message is: Don’t sit on your symptoms. Get yourself checked.”

Parkside at Musgrove Park  offers a private screening service, which can include a colonoscopy (an examination of the bowel with a mini camera). Average waiting times are about two weeks. Parkside is part of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and all profits go straight back into the NHS.

The screening service is also available on the NHS – and the first step is to see your GP.

Data gathered from the National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service shows bowel cancer cases in people aged from 20 to 54 doubled since 1974.

The research also reveals that, by 2005, incidence rates among younger women were increasing faster in the South West than anywhere else in the country.

That is supported by new research from the American Cancer Society, which reveals that the UK is among 27 countries worldwide where bowel cancer cases in young people are rising.

Mr Mackey added: “Early diagnosis is vital. So people who are concerned should seek help and advice now.”

Bowel cancer symptoms can include:

• Blood in your poo.• A change in your bowel habits. You might be going more or less often, or have diarrhoea or constipation that might come and go.• Losing weight, but you’re not sure why.• Feeling very tired all the time but you’re not sure why.• A pain or lump in your tummy.