Bowel cancer usually refers to cancer of the colon or rectum, also called colorectal cancer. These sites are connected, but treatment plans can differ according to where the cancer starts. Many colorectal cancers develop from polyps; finding and removing certain polyps can help prevent cancer. A polyp is not automatically a cancer. See the National Cancer Institute’s colorectal-cancer overview.
Symptoms should be investigated
Possible symptoms include blood in the stool, bleeding from the rectum, a persistent change in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort and unexplained weight loss. Anaemia may cause tiredness or breathlessness. These symptoms can have non-cancerous causes, but that is a reason to investigate rather than guess.
Seek medical assessment for symptoms that are new, persistent or unusual for you. Do not assume that rectal bleeding is simply haemorrhoids. Heavy or continuous bleeding, or large blood clots, requires emergency care. Black or dark-red stools or bloody diarrhoea need urgent medical advice. The NHS bowel-cancer symptoms guide explains when to seek help.
What does a FIT test show?
A faecal immunochemical test (FIT) looks for blood in a stool sample. It can help guide further investigation; it does not by itself confirm cancer. Screening checks people without symptoms, while investigation of symptoms follows a clinical assessment. Tell the clinician if symptoms persist or worsen, even after testing, so the next step can be reviewed.
Colonoscopy and biopsy
Colonoscopy uses a flexible camera to examine the inside of the large bowel. A tissue sample can be taken and examined for cancer cells. Ask the service about preparation, medicines, sedation and transport arrangements; follow its instructions rather than a generic online preparation routine.
If cancer is found, further tests may assess its extent and characteristics. These can include scans and laboratory tests. The NHS tests and next-steps guide explains the process. Ask when results are expected and who will explain them.
Why colon and rectal treatment can differ
The site, stage, tumour characteristics and general health help determine treatment. Surgery is an important option, sometimes combined with chemotherapy. Radiotherapy has a particular role in some rectal-cancer treatment plans. Selected people may receive targeted medicines or immunotherapy.
Some operations require a stoma, an opening on the abdomen through which waste leaves the body. A stoma may be temporary or permanent; it is not inevitable for every person with bowel cancer. Ask what is likely in your own operation and what specialist nursing support is available. See the NHS treatment guide.
Questions that clarify a treatment plan
- Is the cancer in the colon or rectum, and what stage has been established?
- Are any test results still needed before deciding treatment?
- What is the aim of treatment, and why is this sequence recommended?
- Could I need a stoma, and what would recovery involve?
- Which symptoms or treatment side effects should prompt an urgent call?
Keep copies of reports and the contact details for the service coordinating care. A referral for investigation is not the same as a confirmed cancer diagnosis.
Support in South Africa
CANSA’s care-centre directory lists regional contacts for cancer information and support. Contact the relevant centre to confirm services. Your treating team should explain referrals, treatment access and costs. Our appointment preparation guide can help you organise your questions.
Sources checked on 17 September 2026. This is general educational information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. International guidance may describe tests, medicines or services that differ from those available in South Africa. Discuss your own care with a qualified healthcare professional. The featured image is an AI-generated illustration, not a photograph of a real patient.
Leave a Reply