Bleeding, bowel habit changes, and systemic changes are common symptoms that may be associated with colorectal cancer. Bleeding, in the form of finding blood in the stool, is alarming but can also be caused by other issues like ulcers or hemorrhoids. Sudden changes in bowel habits including diarrhea, incontinence or constipation may indicate colorectal cancer. Systemic changes that affect the whole body like unexplained weight loss, anemia, weakness, or jaundice lasting several days should be discussed with a physician to rule out colorectal cancer as a potential cause.

1. Symptoms Linked to Colorectal
Cancer
Dr Eric Gan

2. Introduction
• Singapore-based surgeon Dr. Eric Gan Keng Seng provides patients with a
range of bariatric, upper gastrointestinal, and cancer services. Serving as
the director of Bridge Bariatrics and a consultant surgeon at Mount
Elizabeth Novena Medical Centre, Dr. Eric Gan provides services to
patients with such diseases as colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer may appear without any symptoms, but this is not the
case for everyone. The following are a few common symptoms that are
associated with the disease:
- Bleeding: Finding blood in the stool is alarming and unfortunately can be
a symptom of colorectal cancer. However, blood in the stool can also be
caused by several other problems, including ulcers, hemorrhoids, and
Crohn’s disease. Individuals should see their physician immediately if this
symptom appears to determine the true cause.

3. Colorectal Cancer
• - Bowel habit changes: Sudden changes in bowel
habits, such as diarrhea, incontinence or constipation,
may signify that an individual has colorectal cancer. As
with bleeding, it may also be a symptom of less serious
problems.
- Systemic changes: These symptoms affect the entire
body rather than affecting just the rectum or colon.
Systemic changes can include unexplained weight loss,
anemia, weakness, or jaundice. Even if these
symptoms last for just a couple days, they should be
discussed with a physician to ensure colorectal cancer
is not the culprit.