Three key bowel cancer signs that are often missed after Mel Schilling's death

There are three crucial warning signs of a potentially fatal illness to watch for that aren't related to lavatory habits. These are some less widely recognised symptoms of bowel cancer. Bowel cancer ranks among the most lethal forms of the disease in the UK, accounting for approximately 17,700 deaths annually. It has also featured prominently in the news this week following the death of Mel Schilling, renowned for the programme Married at First Sight, at the age of 54. Mel received her diagnosis in 2023 and earlier this month revealed to followers that the cancer had subsequently spread to her lungs and then the left side of her brain. Following her passing, Genevieve Edwards, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of Mel Schilling's death and send our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. "Mel's courage in speaking so openly about bowel cancer, from her diagnosis through to treatment and everything in between, has already made a profound difference. By sharing her story, she has helped raise vital awareness and encouraged countless people to listen to their bodies and contact their GP when something doesn't feel right. That message has the power to save lives. "Every 12 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with bowel cancer, making it the UK's fourth most common cancer. If you're experiencing symptoms of bowel cancer like bleeding from your bottom, blood in your poo or a change in your pooing habits, please contact your GP to ask for an at-home test."

Symptoms of bowel cancer Bowel cancer can affect anyone, regardless of your age, gender, ethnicity or location. Symptoms can include: Bleeding from your bottom Blood in your poo A change in your pooing habits. You might be going more or less often, or have diarrhoea or constipation that might come and go However, there are some other warning signs that don't involve your toilet habits. According to Bowel Cancer UK these are: Unexplained weight loss Persistent extreme tiredness without obvious cause A pain or lump in your tummy The charity stated: "Having these symptoms doesn't always mean you have bowel cancer, but it's still important to find out what's causing them."

Weight loss Bowel Cancer UK stated: "Speak to your GP if you have lost weight and you don't know why. You may not feel like eating if you feel sick, bloated or if you just don't feel hungry." Feeling very tired all the time "If you are feeling very tired all the time (fatigue) but don't know why, it is important to speak with your GP so they can help you find the cause," the charity explained. "This tiredness may be caused by a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body, known as anaemia. "If you have anaemia, you are likely to feel very tired and your skin may look pale." Pain or lump in your tummy The statement read: "It's important to know what feels normal for you, as not everyone will experience the same symptoms, or they may have different symptoms at different times. If things don't feel right or you notice a change in what's normal for you, visit your GP as soon as you can. "Sometimes, a tumour can block the bowel. This can cause sudden and strong pains in the stomach area, bloating and make you feel or be sick. This is called a bowel obstruction. You may also be unable to poo or pass wind." If you experience any symptoms of bowel cancer, it's crucial to consult your GP immediately. The NHS further advises that you should request an urgent GP appointment or seek help from NHS 111 if your poo is black or dark red, or you have bloody diarrhoea.