BSWRICS Bowel Cancer Service Directory
Being told you have cancer can be a difficult experience. This tool has been prepared to help you find services that may be helpful to you and your family during your experience with cancer.
We cannot give you advice about the best services to use. You need to discuss this with your doctors. However, we hope this information will help you know more about what is available for you in the Barwon South Western region.
Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer is cancer in any part of the large bowel (colon or rectum). It is sometimes known as colorectal cancer and might also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where in the bowel it starts.
Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer, and it may include cancer of the bowel, colon or the rectum. It is diagnosed following a range of tests that will be conducted depending on your individual situation. The tests may include your doctor undertaking a physical examination and an Immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT), which involves testing of your stools that you collect at home. The main test that helps diagnose bowel cancer is a colonoscopy and biopsy. There are other tests which are less common, which your doctor will explain to you, if you require them.
For information about the services that can assist with your diagnosis please view our Bowel Cancer Directory – Diagnosis (PDF).
Treatment for bowel cancer may cause side effects. The severity and duration of side effects varies from person to person. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce or manage side effects. In the first instance, it is important to discuss side effects with your treating team who will be able to provide the best advice for management.
For information about the services that can assist with managing your side effects please view our Bowel Cancer Directory – Managing Side Effects (PDF).
Cancer may cause you, and your family, to face a number of challenges and experience a range of emotions. It is important to access support if or when you need it.
For information about the services that can assist with support please view our Bowel Cancer Directory – Seeking Support (PDF).
There are different options for managing and treating bowel cancer. Your treating doctors will advise you of your options.
For information about the services that can assist with treatment please view our Bowel Cancer Directory – Treatment (PDF).
