Skip to content

Health information

Colorectal Cancer Can Be Asymptomatic

Colorectal & perianal · 1 min

The importance of screening and understanding risk factors.

Why it matters even without symptoms

Colorectal cancer can develop without obvious symptoms. That is why screening exists: it looks for the disease in people who feel well.

Illustration of the colon and rectum with a growth inside the bowel.

Who should discuss screening?

Screening should be discussed according to age and risk, particularly for people with a family history or other relevant risk factors.

Is all blood in the stool caused by cancer? No. There are many possible causes, but recurrent bleeding should be assessed.

If your symptoms persist or you are unsure of the cause, arrange an assessment.

Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum. Earlier detection may provide more treatment options. Blood in the stool cannot be assessed by colour alone and should not automatically be assumed to be haemorrhoids.

When should you be assessed?

  • Blood in the stool
  • A change in bowel habits
  • Persistent constipation or diarrhoea
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Anaemia or unusual tiredness
  • Persistent abdominal pain or bloating

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the site and stage of the cancer. Surgery may be performed laparoscopically or through an open approach. Some patients may also require chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.

Read More: Colorectal Cancer

Health information

Patient Education

Read health information
  • Blood in the Stool: Haemorrhoids or Cancer?

    Why blood colour alone is not enough to determine the cause.

    Colorectal & perianal

    Read More
  • Colorectal Cancer Can Be Asymptomatic

    The importance of screening and understanding risk factors.

    Colorectal & perianal

    Read More
  • Do Haemorrhoids Need Surgery?

    When conservative treatment may be enough and when a procedure is considered.

    Colorectal & perianal

    Read More
  • Haemorrhoid Grades

    A simple explanation of Grades I to IV.

    Colorectal & perianal

    Read More

Book an Appointment

If your symptoms persist or you are unsure of the cause, arrange an assessment.