National Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

Each June, National Bowel Cancer Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of early detection, education and support for those affected by bowel cancer. 

More than 15,000 people in Australia are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year. This means that one in 13 men and one in 17 women will develop bowel cancer in their lifetime. Early detection is key - if caught early, bowel cancer is highly treatable.

When medical care falls short

Our medical negligence lawyers have represented many people who have suffered injuries as a result of substandard medical treatment. 

Common issues we encounter in medical negligence claims relating to bowel cancer include:

• Failure to refer for a colonoscopy or specialist review
• Incomplete or insufficient colonoscopies 
• Misinterpretation of test results, including incorrect diagnoses of haemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome or dietary intolerance 
• Delays in acting on positive screening results
• Inadequate follow-up of concerning symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained anaemia or unexplained weight loss 

When such failures lead to delayed or missed diagnoses, patients face more invasive treatments, an increased risk of spread and recurrence, reduced life expectancy and needless distress. 

We are experienced in assisting people where substandard medical care has worsened their prognosis or caused the death of a loved one. We obtain compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, loss of income and care and domestic assistance.

Brent’s story is a powerful reminder of why early detection matters. His story, shared for World Cancer Day, brings a personal perspective to the importance of speaking up about symptoms and getting the right care, especially during National Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

What you can do 

We encourage everyone to learn the symptoms of bowel cancer and talk to your doctor, participate in the National Bowel Screening Program if eligible and advocate for thorough and timely testing. 

The National Bowel Screening Program mails free test kits every two years to Australians aged 50 to 74. If you are aged 45 to 49, you can ask your GP for a test. 

At any age, if you have any symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained anaemia or unexplained weight loss, please speak to your doctor. 

If you or someone you know has received unreasonable medical treatment related to the diagnosis or treatment of bowel cancer, we recommend that you seek timely specialist advice regarding compensation or superannuation entitlements.