Bowel Cancer Awareness Month
April is Bowel Cancer Awareness month. Whether you are directly affected by bowel cancer, or you just want to find out more, we have information that can help. There are also lots of ways to help raise awareness of bowel cancer.
"You're waving your little flag saying, 'I need some help here.' And then Macmillan comes." - Thom, diagnosed with colon cancer
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers in the UK. It is mostly diagnosed in people over 60, but can be diagnosed in younger people.
The bowel is part of the digestive system and is divided into the small and large bowel. Cancer can affect both areas of the bowel.
Doctors do not know the exact causes of bowel cancer, but there are risk factors that can increases your chance of developing it.
Support for people living with cancer
We provide services for people living with cancer at every stage of their cancer diagnosis. This includes help with paying bills, understanding your diagnosis, and offering a listening ear when times are tough. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bowel cancer, there is lots of support available.
Information on our website
We have information about bowel cancer on our website, which includes the different symptoms, tests and treatments for colon cancer, rectal cancer, anal cancer, small bowel cancer and anorectal melanoma cancer.
We also have information about bowel cancer in 16 different languages and other formats such as British Sign Language videos, booklets and audiobooks.
Accessing Macmillan services
Call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, or chat with an adviser online, 7 days a week 8am to 8pm.
You can also email the Macmillan Support Line.
Use our get support guide by answering some quick questions to get information tailored to you or your loved one's situation.
Find out more about how Macmillan can help.
Bowel cancer support groups
We can help you find support in your local area, so you can speak to people who understand what you or your loved are going through.
The bowel cancer forum on our Online Community is a place to chat to others, ask questions and share experiences.
Mohammad, Nick and Nathaniel's stories
The number of people under 50 being diagnosed with bowel cancer is increasing. Mohammad, Nick and Nathaniel share their experiences of noticing symptoms and getting a diagnosis.
Ways to help during bowel cancer awareness month
Macmillan is here for everybody living with cancer, with our specialist information, support and services. But we couldn't do it without our incredible supporters. Here are a few ways you can get involved.
Whether you prefer an adrenaline rush or a caffeine rush we've got an event to suit you.
Campaign with us to make sure people living with cancer have their voices heard.
Make a difference in the lives of people affected by cancer. We have opportunities to suit your skills.