Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia.
It can occur in any part of the colon or rectum, either growing from the inner lining of the bowel or from small growths on the bowel wall called adenomas or polyps.
Undetected, bowel cancer can spread into the wall of the bowel, the lymph nodes (glands) and then to other organs.
If you are aged 50–74, you are at higher risk. But if detected early, 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.
Find out about the simple home test that could save your life.
For detailed information about bowel cancer in Victoria – including incidence and trends – view the Victorian Cancer Registry fact sheet.