In middle age, new rectal bleeing should prompt testing

In middle age, new rectal bleeing should prompt testing. Bleeding from the rectum is a fairly common symptom. Recently, a team of British doctors reported findings on how often new rectal bleeding points to colorectal cancer. Over a 10-year period, at their clinic the doctors saw 265 people age 45 or older who had new rectal bleeding. After being examined with x-rays or visual scoping techniques, 15 (5.7%) of these people were found to have colorectal cancer. Another 13 (4.9%) had adenomas—non-cancerous growths that may become cancerous. The investigators estimated that 1 in 10 people in their study with new rectal bleeding had either cancer or some form of abnormal cell growth. Accordingly, they recommend that all people 45 or older with new rectal bleeding be evaluated for colorectal cancer, even if no other symptoms are present.

(British Medical Journal)