In Australia, “bowel cancer” is the umbrella term.

It includes two types:
Colon cancer – starts in the long part of the large bowel.

Rectal cancer – starts in the last section of the bowel, just before the anus.

So when you hear “bowel cancer,” it can mean cancer of the colon, the rectum, or both.

Why does this matter?
Because bowel cancer is Australia’s second deadliest cancer, yet it’s highly treatable when found early. Up to 99% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated when detected early.

That’s why screening and listening to your body is so important.
– Trust your gut – you know your body better than anyone.
– Notice any changes to your bowel habits, unexplained tiredness, weight loss.
– Regularly ‘View your poo’ – see your GP immediately if you notice blood in your poo, on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
– Speak to your GP and ask them to rule out bowel cancer
– Do your bowel screening test when it arrives when you turn 50 (and every 2 years after that until age 74), or request your first bowel screening test if you’re aged 45-49.  Request your first kit or order a replacement kit (if yours has been misplaced, been thrown out or expired) by visiting the National Cancer Screening Register here.

Learn more or check your symptoms by using our free symptom checker at www.trustyourgut.org.au