Bowel Cancer Australia
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Cancer information
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Overview
The bowel is a long, tube-like part of the digestive system. It helps your body break down food and turn it into energy and waste (poo).
The bowel has 2 parts: the large bowel and the small bowel. This information is about bowel cancer that starts in the lining of the large bowel. It may also be called colorectal cancer, colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where it is found.
A cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Find helpful information in Just diagnosed, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.
What's in this booklet
About bowel cancer
Read about bowel cancer screening, the types of bowel cancer, who gets bowel cancer, and which health professionals will look after your care.
Symptoms and risk factors
Learn about bowel cancer risk factors and symptoms, including changes in bowel habits, bleeding, weight loss, bloating, and tummy pain.
Diagnosis
Understand common tests, including screening, blood tests, colonoscopy and scans. These may be used to find bowel cancer or see if it has spread.
Treatment of early bowel cancer
Common bowel cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Very early bowel cancers may be treated during a colonoscopy.
Managing side effects
Understand how bowel cancer and treatment can change how your digestive system works. Find out what a stoma is and why some people may need one for a short time or permanently.
Life after treatment
Learn about your follow-up care, what happens if bowel cancer returns, and how to look after your physical and mental health.
Questions to ask your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about bowel cancer care.
Relevant support
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
Australian Government
Services offered
Cancer screening
Find support services
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Read cancer information
Trusted cancer information for all people affected by cancer
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