Bowel cancer

If you have a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of bowel cancer, at HCA Healthcare UK you will receive exceptional care, from the very first moment we meet.

Our consultants and wider clinical teams are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of bowel cancer, ensuring you receive the highest standards of clinical care and support, in safe, comfortable and welcoming environments.

Find a bowel cancer consultant

How common is bowel cancer?

As the fourth most common cancer in the UK, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer. If diagnosed early, it is a very treatable form of cancer - the earlier it is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the higher the chance of successful treatment.

Your individual risk of developing bowel cancer depends on multiple factors including your age, genetics and lifestyle. As is the case with most cancer types, bowel cancer incidence increases with age, however it is possible to develop bowel cancer at any age. Bowel cancer can also run in families, this is known as an inherited or hereditary risk.

If you notice any changes to your health, or are experiencing symptoms of bowel cancer, don’t delay in seeing your doctor.

Common symptoms of bowel cancer include:

If you have any new, persistent, or unusual symptoms, or you feel something is wrong, even if it is not covered on this list, do not delay in speaking to your GP.

An unexplained and persistent change to your bowel habits
Blood in your stool, or bleeding from your bottom
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue – extreme, unexplained tiredness
Pain in your stomach or a noticeable lump in your stomach

What are the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer?

Mr Alastair Windsor, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, Director for Cancer Surgery and Chairman of the GI Tumour Board at HCA Healthcare UK, tells you about the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Bowel cancer care at HCA Healthcare UK

Diagnosing bowel cancer

We recognise that waiting for tests, scans or other diagnostic tests, and their results, is a worrying time. At HCA Healthcare UK you will have rapid access to the latest and most advanced diagnostic technologies and techniques, to provide you with an accurate diagnosis without delay.

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Genetic risk

Some cancers are linked to genetic conditions which run in families, known as an inherited or genetic risk. At HCA Healthcare UK we have highly experienced consultants in clinical genetics who specialise in assessing risk for inherited conditions and helping individuals, and their families, to manage genetic disorders.

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Bowel cancer surgery

You can be assured that at HCA Healthcare UK, our specialist cancer surgery combines the expertise of our consultant surgeons with state-of-the-art facilities and technology, to ensure you have access to the most advanced surgical techniques.

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Anti-cancer therapies and clinical trials

Advancements in genomic testing, immunotherapy, targeted therapies and access to clinical trials are transforming bowel cancer treatment.

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Living with and beyond cancer

We can provide you with a range of support to help navigate the challenges of your diagnosis and treatment.

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How can you help prevent bowel cancer?

Dr Jonathan Hoare, Consultant Gastroenterologist at London Digestive Health explains the steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer.

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Danielle’s story

"No matter how old you are, or how fit, if something doesn’t feel right, get checked."

When Danielle, aged 28, started to experience bowel symptoms, she saw her doctor. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, she underwent surgery.

But when things still didn't feel right, Danielle sought the expertise of Professor Sina Dorudi, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at London Digestive Centre.