MORE than 90 per cent of people recognise at least one bowel cancer symptom in surveyed areas across Cornwall - but new research reveals key warning signs are being missed.

Bowel Cancer UK is launching a pioneering 12-month programme in Cornwall designed to help diagnose more cases of bowel cancer earlier.

Funded by the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK and delivered in partnership with Peninsula Cancer Alliance and Community Pharmacy Cornwall, the Early Diagnosis Programme works directly with communities in Penzance, Redruth, Camborne and Hayle to help people recognise the symptoms of bowel cancer, feel confident speaking to their GP or community pharmacist if something doesn't look or feel right, and complete their bowel cancer screening test when invited.

Research shows that embarrassment, fear of cancer and concerns about “wasting the doctor's time” can stop people from seeking help. The Early Diagnosis Programme aims to empower people to act on symptoms promptly, through community events and awareness activities, social and community group outreach, an advertising campaign to raise awareness of symptoms, and engagement with healthcare professionals to support earlier diagnosis.

A massive 91 per cent of people surveyed were able to recognise at least one symptom of bowel cancer. However, more than half (54 per cent) did not identify feeling very tired all the time for no obvious reason as a possible symptom, while nearly six in 10 (58 per cent) did not recognise a pain or lump in the tummy.

One third did not connect a change in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss with bowel cancer, while a quarter said they had experienced at least one possible symptom of bowel cancer in the previous six months.

Kayleigh Bray, 38, from Redruth, was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer in June 2024 after experiencing significant unexplained weight loss and regular bleeding when she went to the toilet. “I was initially treated for piles, but the bleeding continued,” she said.

“I’d also experienced other changes that didn’t feel right, including sudden and noticeable weight loss. Looking back, I wish I’d known more about the different symptoms of bowel cancer, and that they could happen to someone my age.

“My diagnosis was a complete shock. I want people to know if something doesn’t look or feel right, it’s important to get it checked.”

Almost half the UK’s bowel cancer cases are diagnosed in the later stages (stage 3 and 4), when the disease is harder to treat. Andy Glyde at Bowel Cancer UK said: “We want more people in Cornwall to be diagnosed earlier, when bowel cancer is more treatable and outcomes are better.

“In rural communities, local pharmacies can play an especially important role in making sure people have somewhere accessible to turn to for advice about their health. Through this programme, we want to encourage people who are worried about changes to their bowel health to speak to their community pharmacist, who can help them get the right support.

For more information about the Early Diagnosis Programme and bowel cancer symptoms, visit www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/edp-cornwall