April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, so we are highlighting the simple actions that can help reduce your risk and improve early diagnosis of this common cancer.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, affecting more than 44,000 people every year. It is treatable and often curable, especially when found early—around 9 in 10 people survive when diagnosed at the earliest stage. Sadly, over 16,800 people still die from bowel cancer annually, which is why awareness and early action matter. 
How to Reduce Your Risk
Scientists estimate that around 54% of bowel cancer cases could be prevented through healthier lifestyle choices. You can lower your risk by:
- Eating a balanced diet, including at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day, and increasing calcium and fibre intake
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Being smoke‑free
- Staying physically active with regular exercise
- Eating less red and processed meat
Take Part in Bowel Cancer Screening
The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme invites everyone aged 50–74 to complete a home test kit every two years. If you are over 75, you can request a kit from your GP.
This quick, simple test can detect cancer before symptoms appear, making it easier to treat and potentially life‑saving.
Know the Symptoms
Bowel cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in the early stages, so staying alert to changes is important. Common signs include:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or needing to go more often)
- Blood in your poo or bleeding from your bottom
- Unexplained weight loss or tiredness
- Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating
- A feeling of incomplete emptying after using the toilet
If you experience any of these symptoms for three weeks or more, contact your GP. Early advice and testing can make a significant difference.
Take Action This April
Early detection saves lives. To learn more, get support, or find ways to get involved, visit Bowel Cancer | Bowel Cancer UK.
