Bowel cancer is the UK’s second deadliest cancer, but it is highly treatable when detected early. Recognising bowel cancer symptoms and taking part in NHS screening can help find cancer sooner and improve survival.
More than 9 in 10 people survive bowel cancer when it is diagnosed at an early stage. However, many people do not recognise the warning signs or delay seeking advice.
If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, contact your GP.
Quick guide: the main bowel cancer symptoms
The key symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- changes in bowel habits
- blood in your poo
- abdominal pain or discomfort
- unexplained weight loss
- ongoing tiredness
These symptoms are often caused by other conditions, but it is important to get checked.
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer, also called colorectal cancer, affects the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum.
It often develops slowly over time, starting as small growths called polyps. These can become cancerous if they are not treated.
Bowel cancer is more common in people over 50, but it can affect younger adults too.
The ABCD symptoms of bowel cancer
A simple way to remember the main warning signs is the ABCD method:
- A – Altered bowel habits
- B – Blood in your poo
- C – Cramping or abdominal pain
- D – Dramatic weight loss and tiredness
If you notice any of these symptoms for three weeks or more, speak to your GP.
A – Altered bowel habits
A change in your normal bowel habits can be an early sign of bowel cancer.
This may include:
- going to the toilet more often
- diarrhoea that does not go away
- constipation that is unusual for you
- looser stools
- feeling that your bowel does not empty fully
Ask yourself:
- Has my bowel routine changed recently?
- Have these changes lasted several weeks?
B – Blood in your poo or bleeding from your bottom
Blood in your poo is an important symptom that should always be checked.
You may notice:
- bright red blood
- dark red or black poo
- blood mixed in with your poo
- blood on toilet paper
Speak to your GP if you notice unexplained bleeding.
C – Cramping or abdominal pain
Persistent stomach pain or discomfort can be a symptom.
This may include:
- stomach cramps
- bloating
- pain that comes and goes
- discomfort in your abdomen
Ask yourself:
- Do I have ongoing stomach pain?
- Has it lasted longer than expected?
D – Dramatic weight loss and tiredness
Unexplained weight loss and fatigue can be warning signs.
You may notice:
- losing weight without trying
- loss of appetite
- feeling unusually tired or weak
These symptoms should be discussed with your GP.
When to speak to your GP
Contact your GP if you notice:
- blood in your poo
- persistent changes in bowel habits
- stomach pain lasting three weeks or more
- unexplained weight loss
- ongoing tiredness
These symptoms are often not cancer, but it is important to check.
Do not delay seeking advice.
The FIT test: a simple test you can do at home
Your GP may ask you to complete a FIT test (Faecal Immunochemical Test).
This test:
- can be done at home
- checks for small amounts of blood in your poo
- helps identify if further tests are needed
The FIT test is simple, quick and effective.
NHS bowel cancer screening: who is eligible?
The NHS offers bowel cancer screening to people aged 50 to 74 in England.
You will receive a screening kit through the post. The test involves collecting a small poo sample and sending it to a laboratory.
Screening can detect cancer early, often before symptoms develop. Completing your screening test can help protect your health.
Bowel cancer in younger adults
Although bowel cancer is more common in older adults, cases are increasing in younger people.
If you are under 50 and notice symptoms, speak to your GP.
Early diagnosis improves outcomes at any age.
How to reduce your risk of bowel cancer
YoYou can help reduce your risk by:
- eating a healthy, balanced diet
- including fibre-rich foods such as wholegrains and vegetables
- reducing processed and red meat
- staying physically active
- maintaining a healthy weight
- stopping smoking
- limiting alcohol
Healthy lifestyle choices support bowel health.
Key message: early detection improves survival
Recognising bowel cancer symptoms and taking part in screening are the most important steps you can take.
If you notice symptoms or receive a screening invitation, act promptly.
Early detection makes treatment more effective and improves survival.