Mel Schiling raises awareness for bowel cancer

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer globally but despite how common it is, many may not be aware of the early warning signs or risk factors associated with it.

In the UK, there are around 44,706 new bowel cancer cases every year which is nearly 123 new diagnoses every day. It is the third most common cancer in women, with around 20,759 new cases every year and is the second most common cancer in men, with around 25,303 new cases every year.

Each year, Bowel Cancer Awareness Month throughout April to raises awareness of the condition. When detected early, bowel cancer is highly treatable and survival rates improve significantly. In addition to the importance of early detection, by altering our lifestyles, we can reduce some of the risk factors associated with bowel cancer.

New campaign by leading colorectal research and treatment charity Occtopus, The Oxford Colon Cancer Trust, aims to inform individuals about the signs and symptoms to drive early detection and better patient outcomes.

Aston spoke to Married At First Sight star Mel Schiling and Professor Sir Neil Mortensen, chair of Occtopus Charity (Oxford Colon Cancer Trust) & professor of colorectal surgery.