|
|
|
Get the all-clear for bowel cancer 1
6 June 2008
Bowel cancer is the most common cancer in NSW and the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
That’s why Hunter New England Health Gastroenterologist A/Professor Anne Duggan is urging everyone over 55 to get serious about getting the all-clear during Bowel Cancer Awareness Week (8 -14 June).
“Bowel cancer is Australia's second biggest cancer killer after lung cancer, yet it is one of the most curable cancers if detected early,” Dr Duggan said.
“It claims 30 lives in NSW each week and currently only one-third of new bowel cancer cases in NSW are diagnosed at the primary cancer site before it spreads to other parts of the body.
“The most concerning predication from the Cancer Institute of NSW is that between 2003 and 2011 there will be a 31 per cent increase in the number of new cases, so it’s important that if you are at risk you’re vigilant about being checked.”
Dr Duggan said if you are turning 55 or 65, you should take the opportunity to participate in the Australian Government’s free National Bowel Cancer Screening Program when you receive an invitation in the mail.
“It’s a simple way of finding out if you are at risk of developing bowel cancer,” Dr
Duggan said.
“You use a screening kit in the privacy your home to collect a sample of faeces which can be mailed to a laboratory for analysis.
“If the sample shows positive results you will be advised to discuss the result with a doctor who will generally refer you for further investigations, usually a colonoscopy. A positive result has the benefit of picking up those people who might have a precancerous polyp or if cancer is present the test is more likely to detect it earlier.”
Signs that you urgently need investigation for bowel cancer include:
• Blood in faeces or discolouration of the faeces to dark red or black
• A recent and persistent change in bowel habits such as looseness of faeces, constipation or mucus in bowel motions
• Unexpected weight loss and/or tiredness
• Abdominal or stomach pain or cramps
If you have a family history of bowel cancer you should discuss this with your GP to find out the best screening for you.
“Ways to decrease your chance of developing bowel cancer include a health diet which includes plenty of fruit, vegetables and fibre, regular exercise and participation in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program,” Dr Duggan said.
For more information about the Bowel Cancer Screening Program go to www.cancerscreening.gov.au
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767
|
|
|