A medic is raising awareness of some of the lesser known impacts being diagnosed with colon cancer can have that often get left out of the conversation.
Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer or colon cancer, is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with around 44,000 new cases being diagnosed each year.
It occurs when tumours grow in the large bowel, which is made up of the colon and rectum, but can spread to the rest of the body if left untreated.
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16,808 people died from bowel cancer in the UK between 2017 and 2019.
What are the common symptoms of bowel cancer?
According to Cancer Research UK, common symptoms of the disease include bleeding from the back passage (rectum) or blood in your poo, a change in your normal bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation, pain in your abdomen or back passage, unintended weight loss and fatigue.
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However, there are other side effects of the disease that colorectal surgeon and medical advisor to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, Dr Cedrek McFadden, says aren't spoken about enough.
Lesser-known side effects of bowel cancer
Speaking to the NY Post, he said: "Colorectal cancer comes with side effects that don’t always get the spotlight. Speaking up about them can make a huge difference."
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To start, the condition has a massive emotional toll on those suffering from it.
"Beyond the physical symptoms, the emotional impact of dealing with a diagnosis and treatment can be overwhelming," McFadden explained. "Anxiety and depression are common but not often discussed."
On top of this, it can be really disorientating to see your body go through such massive changes.
"Whether it’s from surgery, weight changes, or a colostomy, patients may struggle with self-esteem and body image issues," the surgeon noted.
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And lastly, patients may continue to suffer from side effects long after their cancer treatment is finished.
"Even after treatment, survivors may face long-term bowel changes, which can be a source of embarrassment or frustration," he said.
While symptoms of bowel cancer can be caused by other, much less serious, conditions, it's important to go see your GP if you're worried about any symptoms you're experiencing.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Bec Oakes