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University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust

Symptoms and First Steps

Your GP will assess your symptoms and refer you to our service if appropriate. They may follow the NICE guidelines which include:

  • Bleeding from back passage
  • A change in your normal pattern of pooing
  • Losing weight unintentionally
  • Pain in your back passage or abdomen

The early symptoms of bowel cancer are very similar to other, much less serious problems with the bowel. Be aware of what is normal for you, so that you recognise any unusual changes.

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