COLORECTAL CANCER

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal (bowel) cancer is a malignant tumour that develops in the large intestine (either the colon or rectum). It is a leading cause of cancer, both in Australia and worldwide. It is highly treatable, especially when detected in its early stages. There are a range of treatments which are tailored to the individual patient, and surgery is often involved.

I’ve been diagnosed with colorectal cancer - now what?

Jayson and his staff will arrange an urgent appointment to see you. He will explore your history in detail, and examine you. Jayson will discuss your diagnosis at length with you and your family, and outline treatment recommendations. Tests such as blood tests and scans are usually required to assess the full extent of the tumour, and to help to guide treatment. Your priorities and opinions about the possible treatment options are very important, and are used to formulate a personalised management plan.

Support

This can be a tumultuous and difficult time for patients and their families. Jayson and his staff will be attentive to your needs, and there will be ample time to ask questions, and to discuss your concerns and priorities. Details about all aspects of bowel cancer can be found online, but it can be difficult to find reliable information. Below are a list of resources which you may find useful, including patient stories and support groups.

Screening

Bowel cancer screening is a preventive healthcare initiative designed to detect colorectal cancer at its early stages by testing asymptomatic individuals. In Australia this is done using a stool sample, testing for microscopic blood (called faecal occult blood testing, or FOBT). This test detects changes that are sometimes associated with abnormal growths (called polyps) in the colon and rectum. By removing these at colonoscopy, before they have had a chance to turn into cancer, bowel colorectal cancer can be prevented. The data tells us that screening for bowel cancer leads to earlier detection of colorectal cancer.

Should I be screened?

It depends on your situation. The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is a government-funded screening program for bowel cancer, using the faecal occult blood test (FOBT). All Australians are automatically enrolled. You should be sent a kit to provide a stool sample every 2 years once you are over the age of 50 (although the commencement age is soon to be lowered to 45). More information can be found on the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program website here

In some cases, such as where there is a family history of bowel cancer or co-existing medical conditions, it may be recommended for screening to start sooner. Jayson will review your situation, and make a recommendation about screening that is tailored to you. 

Importantly, the screening program is for people without symptoms (such as rectal bleeding, or change in bowel habits) - people with symptoms should have them assessed as soon as they are noticed.

Am I at risk of developing bowel cancer?

Information about who is at risk, and strategies for prevention of bowel cancer can be found through the Cancer Council website (see below)