Bowel cancer typically forms as small noncancerous cells but later grows. Its causes are unclear, although age, diet, lifestyle and genes can influence the risk of developing it.  

The charity says early detection is crucial and symptoms may include unusual bowel habits, the presence of blood, abdominal pain, sudden weight loss and fatigue.  

Anyone with these symptoms should contact a medical professional, they say. 

“With awareness, preventive measures, and early detection, the impact of bowel cancer can be minimised. You know what’s normal for you, if you notice something that’s out of the ordinary then speak to your doctor. Don’t sit on it, sort it,” it said. 

Pictured: An example of the FIT testing kits used to detect bowel cancer and other conditions. 

BCG says high-fibre, whole food diets, while reducing ultra processed foods can support digestive health and reduce the risk of developing growths in the bowel. 

This year the charity has repeated a porridge giveaway, to inject some fibre into people’s diets in the mornings. 

This, coupled with regular exercise, can support overall wellbeing. The charity was this year benefitted by the Guernsey Marathon.  

Guernsey’s bowel cancer screening programme was paused at the end of 2022 due to a serious backlog of colonoscopy appointments.

FIT tests were sent out to people again in 2023. People in their 60s should be tested every two years.  

The charity says people in this group and older groups should get tested, and the kits are easy to complete and free to return.  

It invested in an automated tested system for the island in 2019 so results can be checked quicker, and it’s also paid for training for a specialist nurse to support the programme.  

You can find out more about Bowel Cancer Guernsey’s work HERE.