As BBC’s George Alagiah reveals cancer update – the 10 signs of bowel cancer you must never ignore
TV's George Alagiah will be taking a break from presenting after scans revealed his cancer had spread further.
The well-known newsreader - who has fronted BBC News At Six since 2003 - said he is dealing with "some tough stuff".
The 66 year-old was first diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in 2014 and later said it had spread to his liver and lymph nodes.
He underwent 17 rounds of chemotherapy to treat his bowel cancer.
George returned to our screens in April after receiving more treatment.
But today he has said: "A recent scan showed that my cancer has spread further so it’s back to some tough stuff.
"I’m missing my colleagues. Working in the newsroom has been such an important part of keeping energised and motivated."
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George underwent 17 rounds of chemotherapy to treat his bowel cancer back in 2014.
Sadly, his cancer returned in December 2017 and he underwent further treatment before again returning to work.
What are the first symptoms of bowel cancer?
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, spotting any changes and going to your doctor is vital.
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If you notice any of the signs, don't be embarrassed and make sure you speak to your GP.
The five red-flag symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- Bleeding from the back passage, or blood in your poo
- A change in your normal toilet habits - going more frequently for example
- Pain or a lump in your tummy
- Extreme tiredness
- Losing weight
What are the risk factors of bowel cancer?
You're at greater risk of bowel cancer if you have one or more of the following risk factors:
- you're aged over 50
- you have a strong family history of the disease
- a history of non-cancerous growths, known as polyps, in your bowel
- long-term inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- type 2 diabetes
- an unhealthy lifestyle - you smoke, are overweight or obese and do not get enough exercis
Tumours in the bowel typically bleed, which can cause a shortage of red blood cells, known as anaemia. It can cause tiredness and sometimes breathlessness.
In some cases bowel cancer can block the bowel, this is known as a bowel obstruction.
Other signs of bowel cancer include:
- Gripping pains in the abdomen
- Feeling bloated
- Constipation and being unable to pass wind
- Being sick
- Feeling like you need to strain - like doing a number two - but after you've been to the loo
When should I get a bowel cancer screening?
As with any cancer, it's vital to get a diagnosis as soon as possible, for the best chance of survival.
The NHS says: "See a GP if you have any of the symptoms of bowel cancer for three weeks or more."
A number of tests are used to diagnose bowel cancer, starting with a simple examination of the bottom called a digital rectal examination.
The NHS says people might find such tests embarrassing and uncomfortable. But don't let this put you off getting help as soon as symptoms show.
Can bowel cancer be treated?
Bowel cancer is treatable and can be cured, particularly if it is diagnosed early enough.
More than nine out of 10 people with stage 1 bowel cancer - the least serious form - survive five years or longer after they are diagnosed.
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However, this survival rate does drop significantly the longer a person has the disease before diagnosis.
The number of people dying from bowel cancer each year has been falling since the 1970s.