Blood in stool may be sign of serious ailment, says MDCAN president
President of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria Prof. Aminu Mohammad has said blood in the stool also known as rectal bleeding should not be ignored, warning that it could be a sign of a serious health conditions, including colorectal cancer.
Mohammad, a paediatric surgeon, warned that rectal bleeding, particularly if it is persistent or associated with other symptoms, should not be underestimated.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the physician noted that rectal bleeding, accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits, warrants immediate medical attention
While acknowledging that rectal bleeding can result from a range of conditions, Professor Mohammad emphasised that colorectal cancer is one of the most serious possibilities, and often presents with such symptoms.
He described rectal bleeding as the passage of blood from the rectum or anus, adding that it can present in various forms, including bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper, darker blood mixed with stool, or even black, tarry stools.
The surgeon stressed that the nature and colour of the blood can provide important clues about the location and cause of the bleeding.
The don said engaging in several diagnostic procedures, including physical examination, stool test, endoscopy, and imaging studies can help determine the cause of rectal bleeding.
The Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons maintained that early intervention can significantly improve outcomes of rectal bleeding, particularly in cases of colorectal cancer, where timely treatment can prevent disease progression and increase survival rates.
He added, “Rectal bleeding can manifest in different ways, including blood in the stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. The blood may be bright red or dark, depending on the source of the bleeding. Common causes include haemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Source: Punch Newspaper
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