Bowel Cancer & Screening

About Bowel Cancer

What are some of the symptoms of bowel and colorectal cancers?

Recognising the symptoms of bowel cancer early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes, yet many people are unaware of the tell-tale signs. Some common symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency. Blood in the stool—either bright red or dark—can also signal a problem. Unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain or discomfort (such as cramps or bloating), and feelings of fatigue or weakness should not be ignored. Even if these symptoms seem mild, it’s crucial to consult a doctor if they persist for several weeks. Awareness and early action can help detect bowel cancer when it is most treatable. Stay informed, listen to your body, and take the steps to protect your health.

Early onset bowel cancer – a growing risk

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of young adults diagnosed with bowel cancer, a trend that has changed the way we view this disease. Historically associated with older adults, colorectal cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in people under 50, with some cases occurring in individuals as young as their 20s or 30s. This rise in early-onset bowel cancer highlights the critical importance of screening, even if you don’t have symptoms. Many young people are diagnosed at advanced stages because symptoms can be overlooked or misattributed to less serious conditions. Screening can detect bowel cancer before symptoms appear, offering the best chance for early intervention and successful treatment.

Don’t wait—take action today to protect your health.

Screening

How can I screen for Bowel and Colorectal Cancers?

Bowel cancer screening methods like the FIT test and colonoscopy are vital tools for early detection. If you’re over 45 and have no symptoms, you should ask your GP about screening every year. And if you have sustained symptoms at any age, you will need to advocate for screening.

In Ireland, the Bowel Screen programme offers free FIT tests to people aged 57 to 71 every two years. If abnormalities are found, a free colonoscopy is then arranged to check for bowel cancer and remove pre-cancerous polyps.

The FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) works by detecting hidden blood in your stool, which could indicate bowel cancer or polyps. It’s a simple at-home test, non-invasive, and can identify early signs of trouble. If the FIT test shows abnormalities, a colonoscopy is often the next step.
If you are too young for the BowelScreen programme, ask your GP to arrange a FIT test if you have any concerns, at any age. You can also arrange your own FIT test by using one of several private services offering this screening test.

A colonoscopy is more comprehensive—it allows a doctor to directly examine the inside of your colon and rectum for any signs of cancer or polyps. Importantly, during a colonoscopy, the doctor can remove pre-cancerous polyps before they develop into cancer, offering a preventive benefit that the FIT test alone cannot provide. This combination of early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of bowel cancer. Unless you are referred by the Bowel Screen programme, you will need a referral from your GP for a colonoscopy.