My story with bowel cancer

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, with approximately 1.8 million new cases and 881,000 deaths reported in 2018 alone. The risk of developing bowel cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50. Symptoms of bowel cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. While the exact cause of bowel cancer is unknown, risk factors include a family history of the disease, a diet high in processed and red meats, and a lack of physical activity. Early detection and treatment are crucial in improving the prognosis of bowel cancer. Regular screening tests, such as colonoscopies, can help detect precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer, and treatment options can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.