Understanding the diagnosis
One of Bowel Cancer UK's main aims is to raise
awareness of bowel cancer symptoms and to encourage people to take
part in the screening programmes currently rolling out around the
UK. However, anyone with symptoms, even if eligible for screening
is advised to see their GP.
Your GP will want to take a full history from you (see the
factsheets Keeping a Symptom
Diary; Talking
to Your GP) and may wish to carry out some preliminary
tests. These might include:
- Rectal examination and/or abdominal
examination
- Blood tests
- Faecal occult blood test
If your symptoms and/or risk factors suggest further tests are
necessary you will be referred to your local hospital. Common
investigations include:
- Colonoscopy
- Flexi-sigmoidoscopy
- CT/MRI scan
- Virtual
Colonoscopy (this test is usually conducted
privately)
Less common investigations include:
People with suspected cancer are usually seen at the hospital
within 2 weeks of referral from GP.
Please download the factsheet How Bowel Cancer is Diagnosed to find
out more about these investigations and tests.
You can also call the Bowel Cancer UK Information
and Support Service on freephone 0800 8 40 35
40 or email support@bowelcanceruk.org.uk
