Frequently Asked Questions
Bowel Cancer Director and Consultant Surgeon Andrew Latchford has identified some frequently asked questions in connection with Bowel Cancer and outlined some initial guidance with responses to these questions set out below. If you have any further questions that you would like to appear or to be answered please email the team at Bowel Cancer West at info@bowelcancerwest.org or call 01752 439845
- What do I need to do get screened if a relation has been diagnosed with bowel cancer?
Only a small proportion of those who relatives develop bowel cancer need screening. If you have concerns that you may need screening, make an appointment to see your GP who will refer you to see a specialist if it is felt appropriate. If you have multiple relatives who developed cancer and/or were diagnosed at a young age, then you should see your GP.
- What is the process if I need screening?
Your GP will refer you to see a specialist at the hospital. The specialist will take a full family history. Alternatively they may send out a family history questionnaire for you to complete and bring along to your appointment. The specialist will advise you as to your risk of developing cancer and the need screening or other tests.
- What sort of tests will be performed if I get need screening?
For those that need screening, the test that is performed is a flexible camera examination of the bowel (colon) called colonoscopy. This involves taking medication the day before the test to ensure that the bowel is clean. The procedure is performed as a day case ie. you attend the hospital for the procedure and leave the same day. A painkiller and sedative injection are given before the procedure to try and ensure that you are comfortable.
- What is the probability of getting bowel cancer if a relative is affected?
The risk of developing bowel cancer depends on the number of relatives who have been affected by bowel cancer and the age at which they were diagnosed with bowel cancer. Your specialist will go through this in more detail with you at the time of your appointment. The vast majority of bowel cancers are “sporadic” which means that they arise due to a combination of increasing age and lifestyle factors such a smoking, diet, lack of exercise. Only a small proportion of bowel cancer arises due to an individual inheriting genetic problems from a parent.
- What sort of symptoms should I be concerned about?
Anyone who has rectal bleeding (bleeding from the bottom or blood mixed in/on the surface of the stool), a persistent change in bowel habit with or without unexplained weight loss should seek medical advice.
