One in three adults can't name a single symptom of bowel cancer
Monday 31 March 2025
New research reveals that 35% of adults in Great Britain cannot identify a single symptom of bowel cancer – the second deadliest cancer in the UK.
The survey*, commissioned just ahead of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, highlights a worrying lack of public awareness despite bowel cancer claiming over 16,000 lives each year in the UK. Bowel cancer, the fourth most common cancer, is treatable and curable if caught early, yet these findings suggest many people may miss the warning signs.
When asked to name symptoms of bowel cancer:
- Just 12% recognised bleeding from the bottom
- 22% mentioned diarrhoea or changes in bowel habits
- Only 24% identified stomach pain or cramping
- Alarmingly, 35% admitted they did not know any symptoms
- Less than half (47%) mentioned blood in poo
"These survey results are deeply concerning," said Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK.
“Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK, yet far too many people remain unaware of its symptoms. Early diagnosis, when it’s most treatable, saves lives and Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is a vital opportunity to change that."
Adele Roberts said: “I myself couldn’t name any symptoms of bowel cancer before I had it… also the year I was on I’m A Celebrity, I was quite sick with the symptoms and none of us noticed. That’s why I’m so passionate about raising awareness.”
If you notice any changes, no matter how small, speak to your GP and it’s never too early to take action. And this April, we’re asking everyone to #PassItOn—share the symptoms, encourage conversations and help save lives.
Help change the statistics this April
As Bowel Cancer Awareness Month begins this April, we're urging people across the UK to learn the signs and take action that could save lives.
Throughout the month, we're hosting a series of events and activities for you to get involved with. Help us increase awareness, encourage early diagnosis and provide support for those affected by bowel cancer by:
- helping to make sure that no one faces bowel cancer alone by sharing your experience on our story wall
- becoming a Bowel cancer awareness champion and using your voice in the community to raise awareness
- joining one of our virtual awareness talks to refresh your knowledge of the disease
- wearing your support with pride and treating yourself to a hoodie, Star of Hope pin badge or one of our brand new tote bags from our online shop
- attending one of the two awareness roadshows happening in April
You can find out more information about everything we have planned and how you can get involved on our Bowel Cancer Awareness Month Hub.
*All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,145 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 17th - 18th February 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).
