Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of one of Australia’s most common cancers.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the nation’s second deadliest cancer. Each year, around 14,904 Australians are diagnosed with the disease and 5,372 lose their lives. The encouraging news is that when detected at its earliest stage, more than 99 per cent of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully.

Knowing the signs can make all the difference. Symptoms may include:

• Blood in your poo
• Obvious changes in your bowel habit
• Weight loss you can't explain
• Extreme tiredness for no clear reason
• Lump or swelling in your abdomen

If you experience any of these symptoms, speak with your GP.

To help raise awareness across the San community, Specialist Bowel Cancer Nurse Jess yesterday hosted an information stall, joined by her Upper GI Patient Navigator counterpart, Christine. Staff and visitors stopped by to learn more about bowel cancer, test their knowledge through quizzes and purchase specially decorated cupcakes.

The event also raised funds for the San Cancer Support Centre and the vital services it provides to patients and their families throughout their cancer journey.

The San is proud to offer a Specialist Bowel Cancer Nurse Service for patients diagnosed with bowel cancer. Available on Tuesdays and Fridays and proudly funded by Bowel Cancer Australia, the service provides personalised support, nursing advice and information tailored to each patient's diagnosis.

Working closely with the treating team, Jess helps patients navigate their care both within the hospital and through community health services, ensuring they feel informed, supported and connected throughout treatment.

Thank you to Jess for leading this important awareness initiative, and to the entire Cancer Support team for helping educate and engage our community throughout Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.