Overview
Bowel cancer
Bowel cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK.
Depending on where the cancer is, it's sometimes called colon or rectal cancer.
We'll support and care for you throughout your treatment for bowel cancer.
Alongside treatment, we offer:
- specialist education and advice
- pain relief in hospital and at home (palliative care)
- close working with your GP and local hospital
We can also refer you for:
- benefits and welfare advice
- psychological support and therapy
- complementary therapy
- dietary advice
- patient transport
- physiotherapy
- occupational therapy
Your treatment depends on the type and stage of your cancer. You may have radiotherapy, chemotherapy or both. You may also need surgery, before or after your treatment.
Chemotherapy, and some courses of radiotherapy, can be given at our Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup site.
We work with our partners at:
- King's College Hospital
- Princess Royal Hospital, Orpington
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich
- Lewisham Hospital
Our team of specialists work together to give you the best care. Your specialists review your care plan at a weekly meeting called the multi-disciplinary meeting. These specialists include:
- cancer doctors (oncologists)
- cancer surgeons
- cancer nurses
- dietitians
- pharmacists
- radiographers
Health information
We're committed to providing you with personalised cancer care. You can read more about what this means on our cancer care and support page.
Macmillan Cancer Support has free information and emotional support for people with cancer. They have information about:
- cancer types
- treatments and what to expect
- support groups and organisations
Macmillan support forum is a support group for anyone affected by colon, rectal, small bowel, or other colorectal cancers to come together and share experiences.
Bowel Cancer UK has information, and advice for people with bowel cancer.
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has guidance for patients and carers about their treatments. This can help you make decisions about your care.
Cancer Research UK provides information and support about cancers and treatments.
Shine Cancer Support is a charity for people with cancer in their 20s, 30s and 40s.
Trekstock is a cancer charity supporting young adults.
Support
The bowel cancer support group is here to support anyone affected by bowel cancer, at any time.
Wards
You may need to stay in hospital on one of our wards during your treatment:
Our consultants
Gowar Doss
Victoria Harris
Nirupa Murugaesu
Jose Roca
Research and clinical trials
Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.
Last updated: September 2023
