Blood In Your Stool? Why You Should Never Ignore This Colon Cancer Warning Sign

Seeing blood in your stool can be alarming, but many people dismiss it as a minor issue, such as haemorrhoids or constipation. However, persistent rectal bleeding could be an indicator colon cancer. In Singapore, colorectal cancer is the second common cancer in men and women, with over 2,500 new cases diagnosed each year (2018-2022, Singapore Cancer Registry).

While not all cases of blood in the stool indicate cancer, ignoring the symptom could allow a serious condition to progress undetected. Here’s why you should take this symptom seriously and get screened early.

What Causes Blood In The Stool?

Blood in the stool (also known as rectal bleeding) can appear as:

• Bright red blood – Often from the lower colon or rectum.
• Dark, tar-like stools – May indicate bleeding higher up in the digestive tract, such as the colon.

Several conditions can cause blood in the stool, including:

1. Colon Cancer Or Polyps

• Cancerous tumours and polyps in the large intestine or rectum can bleed as they grow.
• In early stages, the bleeding is often mild and may not be visible, making regular screening essential.

2. Haemorrhoids

• Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus can cause bright red blood after bowel movements.
• Unlike colon cancer, haemorrhoidal bleeding is usually not accompanied by pain or other digestive issues.

3. Anal Fissures

• Small tears in the anal lining caused by constipation or hard stools can lead to rectal bleeding.
• These are usually temporary and heal on their own.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

• Conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease cause chronic inflammation, leading to rectal bleeding.

If blood in your stool persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or fatigue, consult a doctor immediately.

Why Blood In Stool Could Mean Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only in later stages. By the time visible blood appears, the cancer may have already advanced.

Singapore Statistics:

• Over 50% of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4, reducing survival rates.
• Early detection through screening can increase survival chances to over 90%.

A colonoscopy is the most effective way to determine if rectal bleeding is linked to cancer. This simple, painless procedure allows doctors to examine the colon and remove any suspicious growths before they turn cancerous.

Learn More: Colonoscopy And Colorectal Cancer Screening >>

Other Warning Signs To Watch For

• If you experience any of the following symptoms alongside blood in your stool, seek medical attention immediately:
• Changes in bowel habits – Persistent diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between both.
• Unexplained weight loss – Sudden weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
• Abdominal pain or bloating – Discomfort that doesn’t go away.
• Fatigue or anaemia – Feeling tired even after rest, which may indicate internal bleeding.

What Should You Do If You Notice Blood In Your Stool?

Don’t ignore the signs! Here’s what to do:

• Monitor symptoms – Keep track of how often you notice blood and any associated discomfort.
• Visit a doctor – A gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon can assess your symptoms and recommend further tests.
• Go for a colonoscopy – If necessary, a colonoscopy can rule out or confirm colon cancer early, improving treatment options.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

While blood in the stool may not always mean cancer, it is a symptom that should never be ignored. In Singapore, early screening has saved thousands of lives, and a simple colonoscopy can detect cancer before symptoms worsen.

Take charge of your health today. If you notice blood in your stool, book a colonoscopy now. Early detection can save your life.

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