Cancer affects millions of people each year, and early detection can be the key to survival. In the US, one in two men and one in three women will develop cancer in their lifetime. While many people are familiar with the common symptoms of cancer, there are also more subtle signs that could indicate something more serious. Dr. Robin Clark, Medical Director at Bupa Health Insurance, recently shared his insights on one such sign—a potential clue that you could be bleeding internally, even if you don’t notice it. Let’s dive into what he had to say about recognizing these subtle symptoms, particularly for bowel cancer.

The Growing Concern: Bowel Cancer on the Rise

Bowel cancer is becoming increasingly common, even among younger people. Dr. Clark raised awareness of this troubling trend, emphasizing how important it is to spot the early signs of the disease. Though weight loss is often linked to cancer, Dr. Clark pointed out that it’s not always the most obvious symptom. “Bowel cancer can prevent your body from absorbing all the nutrients it needs from food, leaving you feeling unwell,” he said. If you’re constantly feeling bloated or lack appetite, it could be worth paying attention.

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Changes in Your Stool: A Closer Look at Your Toilet Habits

One of the most important things to monitor is your stool. Dr. Clark explained that bowel cancer can cause noticeable changes in the color, shape, and texture of your poo, even early on. If you notice these changes lasting for more than a few days, they could be a sign of digestive issues, infection, or something more serious like cancer. Persistent constipation is often associated with bowel cancer, but more commonly, people experience looser stools or a frequent urge to use the bathroom.

In addition, Dr. Clark pointed out that symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and mucus in your stool should not be ignored. These might be uncomfortable to think about, but being in tune with your body could save your life. “The most common things to look out for are changes in your toilet habits or poo,” he said.

Black or Bloody Stool? Seek Help Immediately

If you notice any blood in your stool—whether it’s dark, black, or bright red—it’s essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Bloody diarrhea is also a concerning symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Dr. Clark emphasized that even if blood isn’t visible, internal bleeding can still occur. This is where anemia comes in, a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues. The cause of anemia in some bowel cancer patients is internal bleeding from the tumor.

“The lack of iron in the body can leave you feeling unusually tired,” Dr. Clark noted, warning that this fatigue might be a subtle symptom to watch out for.

Taking Action: Don’t Wait to See a Doctor

As one of the most common types of cancer, bowel cancer should not be underestimated. Dr. Clark urges anyone noticing unexplained changes in their body to seek medical help immediately. Whether you’re experiencing changes in your stool, unusual fatigue, or other symptoms, it’s better to be proactive. “If anything doesn’t look or feel right, or you’ve noticed an unexplained change of some sort, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately, no matter your age,” he stressed.

Conclusion: Early Detection Saves Lives

Recognizing the signs of bowel cancer early can make all the difference. From changes in your stool to subtle symptoms like anemia, it’s vital to pay attention to your body’s signals. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. Your health is worth it!