Bowel Cancer – Early Detections saves lives
The term “bowel cancer” refers to malignant growths which start in the colon or rectum. Bowel cancer is sometimes called colon cancer, rectal cancer or colorectal cancer. It occurs when cells in the bowel lining become abnormal. These cells divide and grow. They usually form a polyp first, which may become a cancer over time, however – not all polyps turn into cancer.
How common is bowel cancer?
In NSW one in 16 people will be diagnosed with bowel cancer in their lifetime with the most common age affected being 45 years and over. Although the risk of bowel cancer increases significantly with age, it doesn’t discriminate and affects people of all ages.
The risk of bowel cancer is higher if you:
> are aged 50 years and over
> have an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis
> have previously had special types of polyps, called adenomas, in the bowel
> have a strong family history of bowel cancer or polyps
Most importantly, bowel cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer when detected early; and if found early, more than 90% of cases can be successfully treated. Eligible Australians aged 45 to 74 can do a free test at home every 2 years through the National Bowel Screening Program.
The George Centre has a team of dedicated colorectal surgeons, general surgeons and gastroenterologists who provide endoscopy services at the hospital in our dedicated endoscopy suite.
Learn more about the importance of bowel cancer screening in this short video from Dr Ricardo Hamilton – Colorectal Surgeon https://youtu.be/UTIDv3TjCiA
Direct Access Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a procedure used to diagnose bowel cancer. Direct Access Endoscopy is ideal for patients who require an endoscopy procedure as part of a recall surveillance program or for a routine gastrointestinal check. You can learn more about Direct Access Endoscopy on our website here https://thegeorgecentre.com.au/direct-access-endoscopy/
Learn more and apply for your bowel screening test kit here https://www.ncsr.gov.au/boweltest
