What are the symptoms?

  • Blood in the stool and a change of bowel habits
  • Abdominal pain
  • Discomfort or bloating brought on by eating

Just 49 per cent of respondents knew about the above signs to watch for.

Another worrying survey discovery was that some 43 per cent of women and 48 per cent of over-65s have never accepted an invitation for a cancer screening.

Consultant general surgeon at Bupa’s Cromwell Hospital Shahnawaz Rasheed said: “There is so much we could do to improve this picture. Increasing intakes of fruit and vegetables, and other high-fibre food, minimising alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy weight will all reduce the risk of developing problems.

“While being alert to symptoms, taking up invitations for screening and raising any concerns with your GP will all dramatically increase the chances of surviving a diagnosis. For many people this can be an embarrassing topic, but no one should ever die from embarrassment.”