Bowel cancer is one of the most common types of cancer to be diagnosed in the UK, according to the NHS.
The disease mainly affects people over 60 years old, but you could also be at risk if you’re overweight, or have a family history of bowel cancer.
Bowel cancer symptoms include a persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss.
If your poo has a red tinge to it, it could be a sign of bowel cancer, according to Ramsay Health Care UK.
You should speak to a doctor immediately if your stool is red, it urged.
Your poo may be a dark red or black colour, as there could be traces of blood in it.
Finding blood in your stool is one of the key bowel cancer symptoms.
The blood usually comes from higher up in the bowel, and goes dark red or black.
If the colour of your stool is more of a bright red, it’s likely to be caused by haemorrhoids, or an anal tear.
The colour is brighter, as the blood is more fresh, said Ramsay Health Care UK.
“If changes in your bowel habits persist for more than three weeks, or if you have noticed blood in your stools, consult your doctor immediately,” warned a Ramsay Health Care Laparoscopic Colorectal Consultant, Ash Gupta.
“These are the key signs that people, especially over 50s who are at most risk, should regularly check for.
“It is understandable that bowel symptoms may sometimes be embarrassing to be discussed and people may be put off by it.
“However, it is crucial to get them investigated and treated early in order to achieve a cure.
“If you do notice bleeding in your stools or persistent loose stools or increased frequency of stools, a camera test called colonoscopy or sometimes even just a limited study called flexible sigmoidoscopy may be required to diagnose and even treat early polyps at the same time.”
It’s not known what causes bowel cancer, but there are some risk factors that increase your risk of the disease.
About 90 per cent of all bowel cancer cases are diagnosed in people over 59 years old.
A diet high in red or processed meats, while low in fibre, could also increase your risk.
But, regular exercise could lower your chances of developing bowel cancer, the NHS said.
Every UK adult should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week.
