Introduction

Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It is an important public health concern because it can develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages.

Learning about colorectal cancer can help people understand their risk factors, recognise possible warning signs and seek appropriate medical advice.

At St Bridget Cancer Awareness Foundation (SBCAF), we believe that colorectal cancer education should reach young people, families and communities, helping to replace fear and misinformation with reliable information.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably.

Some colorectal cancers develop from growths called polyps. Certain polyps can become cancerous over time, although not all polyps develop into cancer.

Screening can sometimes identify these growths before cancer develops or detect cancer at an earlier stage, when treatment may be more effective.

Who is at risk?

Several factors can influence colorectal cancer risk.

• Age: Risk generally increases as people get older, although colorectal cancer can occur in younger adults.
• Family history: Having close relatives with colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps may increase risk.
• Inherited conditions: Some inherited genetic conditions substantially increase risk.
• Diet: Regular consumption of processed meat and higher consumption of red meat are associated with colorectal cancer risk.
• Lifestyle: Physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol consumption and excess body fat are associated with increased risk.
• Medical history: Certain conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, can increase risk.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will develop colorectal cancer. Equally, someone without known risk factors can still develop it.

Warning signs to know

Possible symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

• A persistent change in bowel habits.
• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.
• Ongoing abdominal discomfort or pain.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Unusual tiredness that may be associated with anaemia.

These symptoms can have causes other than cancer. Nevertheless, persistent, recurrent or concerning symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not wait for a routine screening appointment if you have symptoms that need medical evaluation.

Why is screening important?

Screening is intended to identify cancer or certain precancerous changes in people who do not have symptoms.

Depending on the country and individual circumstances, screening options may include stool-based tests and examinations such as colonoscopy.

The recommended starting age and screening intervals differ between countries and can depend on personal and family medical history. People at increased risk may need earlier or more frequent assessment.

If you are unsure about your screening options, speak with a healthcare professional about what is appropriate for you.

Can colorectal cancer be prevented?

Not every case can be prevented, but some steps may help reduce risk:

1. Eat a varied diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, fruits and other fibre-rich foods.
2. Limit processed meat and moderate red meat consumption.
3. Maintain regular physical activity.
4. Avoid smoking and limit or avoid alcohol.
5. Discuss appropriate screening with a healthcare professional.
6. Seek medical advice about persistent bowel changes or other concerning symptoms.

These measures support health but cannot eliminate colorectal cancer risk.

Why should we educate young people?

Health education should not be reserved for older adults or people who already have a diagnosis.

Teaching young people about balanced diets, physical activity, tobacco avoidance, family health history and the importance of seeking medical advice can help establish healthier lifelong habits.

Young people can also help share reliable information with their families and communities.

The SBCAF commitment

At SBCAF, we are committed to raising awareness about colorectal cancer and promoting access to understandable, evidence-informed health information.

We want more people to understand the importance of prevention, recognise potential warning signs and know when to seek professional advice.

Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Do not rely on myths. Do not be afraid to ask questions about your health.

A conversation today could help someone make a more informed decision about their health tomorrow.

This article is educational and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Suggested references for your website

To strengthen the credibility of these articles, include a short References and Further Reading section at the end of each post. These are reputable starting points:

• World Health Organization — cancer facts, prevention and risk factors: WHO Cancer information.
• World Cancer Research Fund International — diet, nutrition, physical activity and cancer evidence: WCRF International.
• Cancer Research UK — cancer symptoms, risks and screening information: Cancer Research UK.
• National Cancer Institute — cancer information and research: National Cancer Institute.