Colon Cancer & Polyps

• Bowel cancer is the second second most common cancer in men and women in New Zealand.  Each year about 2800 people in New Zealand are diagnosed with bowel cancer.  If you have concerning bowel symptoms, for example bleeding from the back passage (anus) or persistent changes in your bowel habit, or have a family history of bowel cancer further investigation including colonoscopy may be indicated.

• Further information on colon cancer see the video explaining the medical condition.

• For further information on colonic cancer detection see the  New Zealand Guidelines Group website:

1. Information for people at increased risk of bowel cancer
2. Surveillance for people at increased risk of colorectal cancer
3. Population Screening for Colorectal Cancer

• The Ministry of Health established a Bowel Cancer Programme in 2009 and on 5th May 2010 the New Zealand Government announced funding for a colon cancer screening program and the Waitemata pilot bowel cancer screening program commenced in late 2011.