Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 2026
Bowel cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but when it is detected early, it is highly treatable. This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, we are encouraging everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to seek medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.
Who can be affected?
Bowel cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or lifestyle. While the risk increases with age, it is important for people of all ages to be aware of potential symptoms.
Symptoms to look out for
Symptoms of bowel cancer can include:
- Bleeding from your bottom
- Blood in your poo
- A change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation, or needing to go more or less often
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling very tired all the time with no clear reason
- A pain or lump in your tummy
Having these symptoms does not always mean you have bowel cancer, but it is important to get them checked by a GP.
Screening and early detection
Regular screening can help detect bowel cancer before symptoms appear. If you are invited for bowel cancer screening, it is important that you take part, even if you feel well.
Looking after your health
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk:
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and wholegrains
- Stay physically active
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Limit processed foods, saturated fats, and sugar
When to seek help
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, or anything unusual for you, please contact the practice. Our team is here to listen, support, and provide advice.
Early diagnosis can make a significant difference. If in doubt, get checked.
