With around 15,400 cases estimated, colorectal cancer is estimated to be the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2023. At the beginning of the century, it was the most diagnosed cancer in Australia. Since 2000, colorectal cancer incidence rates have decreased more than any other cancer.

Great Family friend Annie joins us this Episode to discuss her rather public experience with a sneaky Shart that got out of control.

A new recommendation that colon cancer screening for people at average risk should start at age 45, instead of the previous guidance of age 50. Though most frequently diagnosed among persons over the age of 65 years, it’s estimated that 12% to 13% of new colorectal cancer cases occur in persons younger than 50.

Co-host Brett gives a blow by blow account his most embarrassing poo story - where he got stuck looking for a loo at a Renovation site 💩💩💩😂😂😂 Follow us on Instagram @talesfromdownunder

Common symptoms of bowel cancer cancer include:

• A recent, persistent change in bowel habit Such as looser, more diarrhoea-like poo, constipation, or going to the toilet more often, or trying to go - irregularity in someone whose bowel habits have previously been regular

• A change in shape or appearance of your poo For example, narrower poos than usual or mucus in poo

• Blood in your poo or rectal bleeding Bright red or very dark blood should never be ignored

• Frequent gas pain, cramps A feeling of fullness or bloating in the bowel or rectum

• Unexplained anaemia A low red blood count causing tiredness, weakness or weight loss

• A feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely after going to the toilet

• Pain or a lump in the anus or rectum

• Abdominal pain or swelling

Welcome to Tales from Down Under A podcast all about your (and our) embarrassing poo stories. Our goal is to have some laughs and raise awareness for Bowel Cancer.