BBC Newsreader George Alagiah Dies at 67 from Bowel Cancer
Renowned BBC newsreader George Alagiah has passed away at the age of 67 after battling bowel cancer. Alagiah, who was first diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in 2014, had been an advocate for better awareness of the disease. In May, he took to social media to urge more people to undergo NHS bowel cancer screening.
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, refers to cancer that originates in the large bowel, which consists of the colon and rectum. It is the fourth most common cancer and the second-biggest cancer killer in the UK, with approximately 43,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
According to Professor Sina Dorudi, a consultant colorectal surgeon at the Princess Grace Hospital, early-stage bowel cancers are relatively easy to identify and treat. The cancer usually begins as benign polyps on the bowel wall, which can turn cancerous if left undetected. However, if caught early, most tumors can be fully removed through surgery.
Genevieve Edwards, CEO of Bowel Cancer UK, emphasizes that anyone could be at risk of developing bowel cancer. Although it is more prevalent in individuals over the age of 50, cases in younger people are on the rise, with around 2,500 diagnosed annually in those under 50. Those with a first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with bowel cancer face an increased risk.
Additionally, certain lifestyle factors contribute to the development of the disease. Obesity is a significant risk factor, responsible for approximately 11% of bowel cancer cases in the UK. The consumption of red or processed meat, particularly bacon, ham, and sausages, is linked to around 13% of cases, putting it on par with cigarettes as a leading cause of cancer. Conversely, a fiber-rich diet reduces the risk, while excessive alcohol consumption and smoking contribute to 6% and 7% of cases, respectively.
Early detection is key to survival. Edwards reveals that 97% of people survive bowel cancer diagnosed at stage 1. However, the survival rate decreases as the disease progresses. Only 10% of individuals with stage 4 bowel cancer survive for five or more years, unless the cancer has spread to the liver and can be surgically removed, which raises the survival rate to 40%.
Recognizing the symptoms is crucial. The “red flag” indicators of bowel cancer include bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, and abdominal pain or lumps.
To combat this disease, Alagiah campaigned for bowel cancer screening offered by the NHS. Currently available to individuals between 60-74 years old (set to start at age 50 by 2026), screened individuals will receive a FIT (faecal immunochemical test) kit every two years. In Scotland, screening begins at age 50.
The FIT test examines stool samples for trace amounts of blood. If blood is detected, patients are referred for diagnostic tests. According to Edwards, the majority of people referred for further testing do not have bowel cancer, making the FIT test an easy and effective screening method. While those in the eligible age group are automatically offered screening, individuals of any age with symptoms can now request a FIT test from their GP.
Edwards highlights the importance of the FIT test for younger individuals, who often struggle to receive a timely diagnosis due to GPs prioritizing other potential causes for their symptoms. The availability of home testing for younger patients should expedite their diagnosis, ensuring that they receive the necessary treatment promptly.
The passing of George Alagiah serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, early detection, and screening in the fight against bowel cancer. His legacy continues to inspire efforts to improve outcomes for those affected by this devastating disease.