April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month – a crucial time to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and save lives.
What Is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK and around the world. It typically affects the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. Most cases occur in people over the age of 50, but younger individuals can also be affected.
Why Bowel Cancer Awareness Month Matters
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, held every April, is dedicated to increasing public understanding of the symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early diagnosis. In 2025, the campaign is more important than ever, with many people still catching up on delayed screenings due to healthcare disruptions in recent years.
According to Bowel Cancer UK, nearly 43,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year in the UK alone. Yet, when caught early, it is highly treatable and curable. That’s why spreading awareness can truly make a life-saving difference.
Common Symptoms of Bowel Cancer
Recognising the early signs of bowel cancer can significantly improve outcomes. Key symptoms include:
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Persistent change in bowel habits (e.g., diarrhoea or constipation)
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Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
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Unexplained weight loss
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Abdominal pain or bloating
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Feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
If you notice any of these symptoms for three weeks or more, consult your GP as soon as possible.
Who Is at Risk?
While bowel cancer can affect anyone, certain factors can increase your risk:
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Age (especially over 50)
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Family history of bowel cancer
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Diet high in red or processed meat and low in fibre
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Sedentary lifestyle
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Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
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Certain medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease
How to Get Involved in Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 2025
There are many ways to support the campaign and help spread the message:
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Share information online – Use hashtags like #BowelCancerAwareness and #KnowTheSigns on social media.
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Donate or fundraise – Support charities like Bowel Cancer UK to help fund research and patient support.
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Encourage loved ones to get screened – Especially those aged 50 and over.
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Host awareness events – Whether in your workplace, school, or community.
The Importance of Screening
Screening is one of the most effective tools in detecting bowel cancer early. In the UK, the NHS offers regular home test kits (FIT tests) to people over a certain age. These kits are simple, non-invasive, and could be life-saving.
If you receive one, don’t ignore it. Taking a few minutes to complete the test could make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 2025 is more than just a campaign – it’s a reminder that knowledge, action, and early detection can save lives. By talking about bowel cancer, learning the symptoms, and encouraging others to get checked, we can all help reduce the number of lives lost to this disease.
Don’t wait. Be aware. Get checked.