2005
Incidence and mortality rates: NSW
- There were 4,483 new cases of bowel cancer in NSW in 2005 (2,448 male, 2,035
female).
- Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer for both sexes combined and also the second most common cancer death.
- There were 1,585 deaths from bowel cancer in 2005 (882 males and 703 females).
- 1 in 18 males and 1 in 28 females will develop bowel cancer by the age of
75.
Trends: NSW
- From 1996 to 2005 there was no significant trend in age-standardised incidence in either males or females.
- From 1996 to 2005 the age-standardised mortality rates for bowel cancer
fell by 21% in males and 22% in females.
Incidence and mortality rates: National
- Bowel cancer is the most common registerable cancer in Australia.
- There are around 12,500 new cases of bowel cancer diagnosed in Australia
each year.
- Around 4,400 Australians die from bowel cancer each year.
- 1 in 22 Australians will develop bowel cancer by the age of 75 years.
- Compared with NSW as a whole between 2001 - 2005, bowel cancer incidence was significantly lower in both males and females in Sydney South West Area Health Service.
Consult your GP if you have any of the following:
- The most important sign to look for is blood in the bowel motion or the
toilet bowl. If you are over 50 check the toilet bowl and toilet paper after
each bowel motion.
- If you have any changes in your toilet habits lasting more than two weeks.
- If one or more of your close relatives have had bowel cancer.
- You have had bowel polyps (small growths) or bowel cancer.
- You have had inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's
disease for more than eight years.
- You are a member of a family with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) or
another family bowel cancer syndrome.
Prevention
- Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of bowel cancer.
- Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of bowel cancer.
- Studies show that a diet high in vegetables, fruit and fibre can reduce
the risk of bowel cancer.
- Go easy on processed meats like sausages, salami, bacon and ham, as these have been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer.
Screening
- It is recommended that those 50 and over use the Faecal Occult Blood Test
(FOBT) at least two years (or every year if possible) to detect any signs of bowel cancer.
- Australians who turn 55 or 65 years between 1 May 2006 and 30 June 2008 will be offered an FOBT as part of a national screening program. For more information call 1800 118 868 or visit www.cancerscreening.gov.au/bowel
- Detected early, bowel cancer is the most curable cancer.
- Ask your GP if you have any concerns.
Survival
- The five-year relative survival experienced by cases diagnosed with bowel cancer in 1999-2003 in NSW was 65% for males and females.
The Cancer Council NSW operates the Cancer Council Connect Bowel Cancer
Peer Support program which can be contacted on ph 13 11 20.
For information and counselling call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 for
the cost of a local call
| previous
page
