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.

“Colorectal cancer is a significant concern when it comes to rectal bleeding. The disease often starts with polyps in the colon or rectum that can bleed and cause symptoms. These polyps may eventually develop into cancer if left untreated. According to statistics, colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, making early detection and intervention critical.”

The surgeon pointed out that colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle and may not always present in a way that immediately raises alarm.

He stressed that ignoring rectal bleeding or attributing it to minor issues like haemorrhoids can delay the diagnosis of serious conditions.

The don emphasised the importance of not self-diagnosing and consulting healthcare professionals for a thorough examination.

He stated that early diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy can help identify the cause of bleeding and determine the appropriate course of action.

“While not all cases of rectal bleeding are indicative of cancer, the potential risk underscores the need for regular screenings, especially for individuals over the age of 30 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in fibre, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can also contribute to reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.

“Rectal bleeding, no matter how mild or intermittent, should not be ignored. It’s essential to take this symptom seriously and consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Early intervention can be life-saving,” he added.

He, however, lamented that inadequate healthcare infrastructure and financial constraints often lead individuals to seek help only when symptoms become severe.

According to him, socio-economic factors can also impact the management and outcomes of rectal bleeding. Limited access to healthcare, high costs of medical services, and reliance on traditional remedies can delay diagnosis and treatment.