There are many different forms of cancer that may result in the patient requiring colostomy or ileostomy surgery. The most common type of cancer being bowel cancer, which is a general term that encompasses colon, rectal, small bowel or anal cancers. Bowel cancer is most prevelant in 60 year olds and older, with a peak rate of diagnosis being between ages 85-89. Approximately 62% of bowel cancer suffers will receive a major surgical resections and part of their cancer treatment.

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There are 3 main reg-flag symptoms that patients experience:

• persistent blood in stools

• persistent change in bowel habit

• persistent lower abdominal pain, bloating or discomfort.

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The risk factors for bowel cancer are:

• old age

• a diet low in fibre

• a diet high in processed meat

• being overweight

• not exercising regularly

• high alcohol intake 

• smoking

• having a family history of the disease.