Bowel cancer

Concerned about symptoms?

Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.

RELATED

Bowel Cancer Screening

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Colonoscopy

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Rectal Bleeding

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Blood in Stool

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TRUSTED INFORMATION

Official NHS condition guide, bowel cancer symptoms.

One of the most treatable cancers when caught early. Prompt investigation of symptoms gives the best chance of successful treatment.

What is bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer symptoms are assessed urgently by Dr Kejariwal. Bowel cancer, also called colorectal cancer, develops in the colon or rectum. It is common in the UK, but also very treatable when caught early.

Patients across Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland are seen promptly for suspected bowel cancer symptoms. Dr Kejariwal has specialist experience in early gastrointestinal cancer detection.

Causes and risk factors

Risk factors include age, since most cases occur over 50, though rates in younger adults are rising. A family history of bowel cancer raises risk. So does long-term IBD, a diet high in processed meat, obesity and smoking (NHS, 2026).

Symptoms

  • Bleeding from the back passage or blood in the stool
  • A persistent change in bowel habit lasting three weeks or more
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Abdominal pain or a lump felt in the tummy
  • Unexplained tiredness or breathlessness (a possible sign of anaemia)

When to seek help: Any symptom above lasting three weeks or more should be checked promptly, even after recent screening.

How is bowel cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a colonoscopy to examine the bowel directly. Biopsies are taken of any suspicious areas. Blood tests and imaging assess the full extent of any findings.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment depends on the stage and location of any cancer found. It may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted treatment. Dr Kejariwal guides you clearly at every stage.

Living with bowel cancer in 2026

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. Survival rates have improved significantly in recent years, especially when caught early. National screening runs from ages 50 to 74, but acting on symptoms between rounds still matters.

Self-care and prevention

Attend bowel cancer screening when invited. Eat a diet high in fibre and low in red and processed meat. Stay active, keep a healthy weight, and avoid smoking and excess alcohol.

What happens at your appointment?

You meet Dr Kejariwal at Cobalt Hospital for a full consultation. He reviews your symptoms, history, and any past tests. He explains what he thinks is happening in plain English. Together you agree a clear next step, whether that means more tests, starting treatment, or simple monitoring. A written summary goes to you and your GP after every visit. Most patients are seen within one to two weeks, and urgent concerns are prioritised.

When to see a specialist

See a specialist promptly for persistent bowel symptoms, rectal bleeding, or a change in bowel habit, however minor they seem.

Frequently asked questions about bowel cancer

What are the earliest warning signs of bowel cancer?

Early signs can include rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habit, or unexplained anaemia. Bowel cancer can sometimes cause no symptoms early on.

How is bowel cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually confirmed with a colonoscopy and biopsy, sometimes alongside a CT scan for the full picture.

What happens if bowel cancer screening finds something abnormal?

An abnormal result usually leads to a colonoscopy referral. This allows direct examination and, where needed, biopsy of any suspicious areas.

Can bowel cancer be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent it. A healthy weight, high-fibre diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking can all help lower risk.

Concerned about symptoms?

Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.

Related

  • Bowel Cancer Screening
  • Colonoscopy
  • Rectal Bleeding
  • Blood in Stool

Trusted information

Symptoms of bowel cancer

Official NHS condition guide, bowel cancer symptoms.