Bowel cancer

The term 'bowel cancer' can be used to describe cancer in the colon, rectum or the small bowel.

To help you find information that's relevant for you, we've divided it into different sections on this site: colon and rectal| cancer and small bowel| cancer.

Quick facts about bowel cancer

The colon and rectum make up the large bowel.
Cancer of the colon or rectum is also called colorectal cancer. It is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK.
The cause of most cases is unknown but lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise are thought to affect your risk of developing colon or rectal cancer.
Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may all be used to treat bowel cancer.
Many people survive colon and rectal cancer.

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Content last reviewed: 1 September 2012

Next planned review: 2014

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Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UQ.