More than 100 Wellingtonians could lose their lives to bowel cancer this year — but most of those lives can be saved with early detection.

Bowel cancer is the second deadliest cancer in New Zealand, yet it’s one of the most treatable when caught early. Unfortunately, many people still ignore the symptoms or delay getting checked — often until it’s too late.

In the Wellington region, cancer rates reflect national averages. That means we can expect an estimated 300 new cases and over 100 potential deaths in our community each year if we don’t act.

What Is Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) is cancer that starts in the large bowel (colon) or the rectum, which are parts of your digestive system.

It usually begins as small growths called polyps, which may not cause symptoms at first. Over time, some of these polyps can turn into cancer if they aren’t found and removed.

There are two main types:

• Colon cancer – starts in the colon (large intestine)

• Rectal cancer – starts in the rectum (the last part of the bowel)

When caught early, bowel cancer is highly treatable, with a 90% survival rate. But if left undetected, it can spread to other parts of the body and become much harder to treat.

The Hard Truth: Fast Facts

• 3,000+ people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in NZ every year

• 1,200 die annually — that’s more than 3 New Zealanders every day

• 1 in 18 Kiwis will face this disease in their lifetime

• Wellington region makes up about 10% of national cases, putting us at serious risk

Who’s at Risk?

While bowel cancer is more common in people over 50, 10% of cases occur in those under 50. Risk increases with:

• A family history of bowel cancer

• Conditions like IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)

• Diets low in fibre and high in processed meats

• Smoking, obesity, and alcohol use

Don’t Ignore These Symptoms

If any of the following persist for more than 2–3 weeks, see your GP immediately:

• Blood in your stool (bright red or dark)

• Changes in bowel habits

• Ongoing abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping

• Sudden weight loss or fatigue

• Signs of anaemia without explanation

Where to Get Checked in Wellington

Start With Your GP

They can organise:

• A faecal immunochemical test (FIT)

• A colonoscopy, if needed

 Free National Screening Programme

• For men and women aged 60–74

• Home test kits mailed every two years

• Haven’t received yours? Call 0800 924 432

Local Health Services:

• Wellington Hospital, Newtown

• Bowen Hospital, Crofton Downs (private)

• Wakefield Hospital

• Mana Medical Centre, Porirua

• Your local GP practice

✅ Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Eat plenty of fibre (vegetables, fruits, whole grains)

• Exercise regularly

• Reduce red and processed meat intake

• Say yes to screening

• Know your family history

❌ DON’T:

• Ignore persistent symptoms

• Delay visiting your GP

• Skip your screening invitation

• Assume it can’t happen to you

❤️ Final Word

90% of bowel cancer cases are treatable when caught early.
So let’s talk about it. Let’s test for it. Let’s protect ourselves and the people we love.

Together, we can prevent over 100 unnecessary deaths in our community this year. But only if we act — now.

Written by AQ
Nonstop Wellington Live