Bowel Cancer
| The Diagnosis | The Treatment | Questions |  |
The Colon And Rectum (Large Bowel)
The bowel is divided into two parts, the small and large bowel.
Most cancers develop in the large bowel, which is also known as the colon and rectum.
Once food has been swallowed it passes down the oesophagus to the stomach and into the small bowel.
As food passes through the small bowel it is digested and essential nutrients are taken into the body.
The digested food then enters the large bowel and water is absorbed.
The remaining waste matter, known as stool or faeces, is held in the rectum (back passage) until it is ready to be passed from the body as a bowel motion.
The Cause
The causes of bowel cancer are largely unknown. However, a number of factors are known to increase the risk of getting bowel cancer.
In most people the cause of cancer of the large bowel is still unknown.
People who have a rare condition known as familial multiple polyposis, in which benign tumours called polyps are found in the lining of the colon, are at an increased risk of developing the disease.
This also applies to people with a long history of ulcerative colitis, a disease of the lining of the bowel.
There is evidence to suggest that cancer of the large bowel may also be linked to our diet. It is thought that a diet that is high in animal fat and protein, and low in fibre, may increase the risk of developing cancer of the bowel.
People with a family history of bowel cancer may also have an increased risk of developing the disease.
Bowel Cancer In Hong Kong
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The Symptoms / Risks
Consult your GP if you have any of the following:
The most important sign to look for is blood in the bowel motion or the toilet bowl. If you are over 50 check the toilet bowl and toilet paper after each bowel motion.
If you have any changes in your toilet habits lasting more than two weeks.
If one or more of your close relatives have had bowel cancer.
You have had bowel polyps (small growths) or bowel cancer.
You have had inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease for more than eight years.
You are a member of a family with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) or another family bowel cancer syndrome.
Prevention
Studies show that a diet high in vegetables, fruit and fibre can reduce risk of bowel cancer.
It is recommended that you lower your intake of fat, salt and preserved foods and if you drink alcohol only do so in moderation.
Screening
It is recommended that those 50 and over use the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) at least every two years (or every year if possible) to detect any signs of bowel cancer.
Detected early, bowel cancer is the most curable cancer.
Ask your GP if you have any concerns.
