At Telecare Choice we often provide Telecare Alarms to those with serious or long-term diseases and illnesses. As part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month we are making our customers aware of the symptoms and causes of this disease so that you are better informed to protect yourself.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and yet survival rates are lower in the UK than in many other European countries due to a combination of factors such as lack of awareness and varying levels of care.
What is it?
Bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) develops in the colon or rectum due to the growth of abnormal cells. According to Cancer Research UK, there are over 41,900 new cases of bowel cancer being diagnosed in the UK every year. The cancer usually starts with polyps (a type of benign tumour) that turn cancerous over time. When diagnosed at stage one, more than nine out of ten people survive for five years or more compared to less than one in ten when diagnosed later on. Fast diagnosis is key so being aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer is crucial.
What symptoms should I look for?
Bowel cancer presents itself differently in every case but there are some common symptoms such as:
? Blood in the stool. Whilst there are many reasons for bleeding, it is wise to always consult your doctor in order to find out the cause.
? Change in bowel habits lasting longer than two or so weeks.
? Extreme tiredness or anaemia.
? Unexplained weight loss. This may be caused by a loss of appetite due to feeling sick or bloated.
? Painful tummy. There may also be a lump in your abdomen or back passage.
If you have any of these symptoms or have any suspicion concerning your health at all, consult your Doctor as soon as possible.
Look after yourself
Whilst the majority of bowel cancer diagnoses are in elderly people, there are many ways that you can help to reduce the risk as you age.
Eat less red meat – One important change you should make is to eat less processed and red meats. Replace them with fish, chicken and meat-free products. ‘Meat-free Monday’, a concept made popular by the likes of Jamie Oliver, is an initiative to eat a vegetarian diet for one day a week and is an effective way to make a small change in your diet.
Keep at a healthy weight – Staying at a healthy weight for your height, age and sex cuts your risk of bowel cancer and of other cancers too. You don’t need to make drastic changes, just eat a well-rounded diet and check the labels on the food you eat – there’s often some nasty surprises. Staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as the added benefit of making food move through your bowel quicker and reducing inflammation. Staying active does not mean you have to take up distance running. Taking a brisk walk a few times a week is still effective.
Eat more fibre – Fibre also makes food move through the bowel more quickly, cutting the risk of bowel cancer. This can be as simple as swapping white bread and pasta for wholemeal alternatives and adding beans and pulses to soups and casseroles.
Put your mind at ease
As part of the their 2016 campaign, Bowel Cancer UK are focusing on bowel cancer screening – a process that can save lives. At the moment, in some areas of the UK, only a third of those who receive a test complete it. If you are over 60, you will receive a test in the post. Screening can detect bowel cancer at a very early stage when it is easier to treat.
Disclaimer: All Telecare Choice blogs should be used for general information purposes and should not be used as a replacement for medical advice given by a GP or health professional.
