Bowel Cancer

In the fourth and final episode, BCfm Radio presenters Laura Rawlings and Pat Hart are joined by Dr Thomas Strawson-Smith, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, to talk openly about bowel cancer, the symptoms to look out for and why screening and early diagnosis can save lives.   The episode explores some of the key warning signs, including blood in your poo, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, tiredness and persistent abdominal pain. It also tackles the embarrassment that can sometimes surround talking about poo, bowel symptoms and procedures such as colonoscopies, with a clear message that healthcare professionals deal with these issues every day.   The conversation also looks at the NHS bowel cancer screening programme, what happens if your home testing kit finds traces of blood, and why a positive result does not automatically mean cancer. Thomas explains how colonoscopies can identify and remove polyps before they become cancerous, and how finding bowel cancer early can mean simpler and more successful treatment.   Laura, Pat and Thomas also discuss diet and lifestyle, reducing barriers to screening, the importance of getting reliable information from trusted sources, and practical ways to prepare for medical appointments following a diagnosis.   Produced by BCfm Radio with support from the NHS Somerset, Wiltshire, Avon and Gloucestershire (SWAG) Cancer Alliance, the series combines clinical expertise, lived experience and practical guidance, with a strong emphasis on early diagnosis and reducing barriers to care.   The key message: know what is normal for you, don’t ignore changes, complete your bowel screening test when it arrives, and if something does not feel right, speak to your GP. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference.