Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in Ireland, with 2,700 new cases being diagnosed every year.
Most cases are seen in people over 60 years of age, but 5% of cases affect those under 50.
Bowel cancer is a major illness and is often fatal, but as with many cancers, the prognosis is good if detected early.
Symptoms include blood in the stool, stomach pain and discomfort, bloating, weight loss and vomiting.
Dr Ray Walley's advice in our weekly medical consultation is to see your GP if you notice any of these symptoms, or anything that seems out of the ordinary.
In terms of preventative measures, he advises eating less processed food, reducing your red meat intake and consuming more fruit, vegetables and fiber.
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