WARNING SIGNS

Colorectal cancer, which occurs in the large intestine and the rectum, is the most common cancer affecting Singaporeans.

Symptoms:

• Blood in the stools, as tumours tend to bleed.
• Altered bowel habits, such as decreased frequency of bowel movements.
• Narrow or ribbon-like stools, as this may indicate there are blockages in the large intestine or rectum.
• Constipation, abdominal pains or cramps, and a feeling of bloatedness may signal there are blockages in the form of tumours.
• Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
• Persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Unexplained weight loss.

This story was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.