28 February 2024 , 20:00
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At the start of a new year, you may have fitness and lifestyle goals that you're sticking to - but a byproduct of these could also be a little-known sign of bowel cancer.
As a result of eating healthier, and exercising more, you may be losing weight, and therefore, rather than being concerned about the pounds dropping off you, you may be pleased. But if you're losing way more weight than you intended, it could be a sign of bowel cancer - which can be more difficult to spot at this time of year if you've overhauled your habits completely.
Guts Charity shared that the usual symptoms of bowel cancer can include bleeding from the bowel, changes in bowel habits, such as unusual episodes of diarrhoea or constipation, and abdominal pain or weight loss. They did warn, however, that these symptoms are similar to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), so if you're concerned, it's best to see your GP. They said: "A new, prolonged change in bowel habit lasting four weeks or more should always be discussed with your doctor."
You may lose weight due to stomach pain and nausea, as this will reduce your appetite so you don't consume enough food to maintain the weight that is normal for you. Also, prolonged periods of diarrhoea can cause weight loss. You may also feel tired, and have low energy levels for no reason. More than 42,000 cases are diagnosed every year and the majority of these are older adults.
Cancer Research UK said that the risk factors for bowel (colorectal) cancer include your age, family history, lifestyle factors and other medical conditions, and if you're concerned, visit your GP - if they suspect something could be wrong, they will refer you to a specialist who will organise appropriate tests.
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The NHS says: "Bowel cancer is cancer that's found anywhere in the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. The large bowel is part of your digestive system. It helps absorb water from your food and removes food waste from your body. How serious bowel cancer is depends on how big the cancer is, if the cancer has spread, and your general health. Bowel cancer screening can pick up bowel cancer early, which may mean it's easier to treat. It's important to get any symptoms of bowel cancer checked as soon as possible."
Symptoms may include:
- changes in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for you
- needing to poo more or less often than usual for you
- blood in your poo, which may look red or black
- bleeding from your bottom
- often feeling like you need to poo, even if you've just been to the toilet
- tummy pain
- a lump in your tummy
- bloating
- losing weight without trying
- feeling very tired for no reason
The NHS urged people to get checked out by their GP, as it may not be bowel cancer, but it's important to rule it out.