Bowel Cancer Australia
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Cancer information
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Overview
Treatment for bowel cancer may change how your bowel and digestion work. You may need a stoma, which is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows waste to leave the body. You may need to adjust your diet to manage bowel issues such as diarrhoea.
These changes are usually temporary, and can often be managed. Talk to your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms.
Having a stoma
A stoma is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows waste (faeces, stools or poo) to leave the body. Stomas may be temporary or permanent.
Changes to your diet and bowel habits
Treatment for bowel cancer can affect how your bowel and digestion work. Some people may also find that some foods cause discomfort. These issues are challenging but usually improve over time.
Relevant support
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
Australian Government
Services offered
Cancer screening
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