Breakthrough Australian Research Offers New Hope in Bowel Cancer Fight

Bowel cancer stands as a formidable adversary in Australia, ranking second among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. The grim statistics reveal that 1 in 14 individuals, regardless of gender, will grapple with this disease by the age of 85. While individuals aged between 50 and 74 face heightened risk, a concerning trend emerges with an increasing number of younger Australians being diagnosed, with 1 in 9 new cases emerging in those under 50.

Despite claiming over 100 lives weekly, the disease harbors a ray of hope – around 90% of cases can be effectively treated if detected early.

In a ground-breaking development, Australian National University (ANU) researchers have unveiled a revolutionary discovery that promises to revolutionize early detection strategies for bowel cancer. At the heart of their pioneering work lies an immune system protein known as Ku70, poised to redefne the landscape of cancer diagnostics and treatment.

Lead researcher Dr. Abhimanu Pande sheds light on the pivotal role of Ku70, describing it as a molecular sentinel capable of identifying cellular distress signals indicative of damaged DNA – a precursor to cancerous transformation. Through a strategic combination of novel and existing drugs, researchers can activate Ku70, effectively transforming it into a vigilant guardian capable of neutralizing cancer cells by cooling them off and

Check For Early Signs

The symptoms of bowel cancer can be easy to miss, but they may include:

• Bleeding from the rectum (back passage), or blood in your stools (faeces)

• A recent, ongoing change in bowel habits –for example, looser stools, constipation, more frequent trips to the toilet, or stools that are narrower than usual

• Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating

• Unexplained weight loss

• Unexplained tiredness (which may also be due to anaemia).

If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor. In particular, bleeding from the rectum should never be ignored.

Health Direct has a symptom scan the QR Code on this page.

Under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, Australians aged between 50 and 74 receive a free bowel screening test every two years.