Bowel cancer is a general term for any cancer that develops in the large bowel, and it may sometimes be known as colon or rectal cancer.
You could lower your risk of the condition by making a few lifestyle changes.
The early warning signs of bowel cancer can be very subtle, and many people may not be aware that they’re at risk.
One of the earliest warning signs of bowel cancer is having a pain in your anus.
READ MORE: Bowel cancer symptoms – the sign you may have the disease
“Symptoms of bowel cancer can include a change in your normal bowel habit or blood in your poo,” said the charity.
“They can also be symptoms for other conditions, but it’s important to see your doctor.
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“The symptoms of bowel cancer in men and women can include pain in your abdomen or back passage, losing weight, tiredness, and breathlessness caused by a lower than normal level of red blood cells.
“Remember these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. Many of these are much less serious than cancer, such as piles [haemorrhoids], infections or inflammatory bowel disease.”
Anal pain may be distressing, but it’s unlikely to be caused by bowel cancer.
It’s usually very treatable, and may be caused by an anal fissure, haemorrhoids, or even inflammatory bowel disease.
Speak to a doctor if your pain is severe, or if it doesn’t improve after a few days.
You shouldn’t feel embarrassed to see a GP, as they’re used to seeing patients with similar concerns.
Source: Daily Express
