Hi Emmaa and thank you for your post.

I am sorry to hear about your husband’s situation and I can appreciate the concern you have.

Bowel cancer screening  is for people aged between 54-74.  You are sent a FIT home testing kit to check for occult blood. I do not feel this will help in your husband’s case as you are already aware there is blood present.

I'm afraid we are unable to diagnose or tell you if anything is the matter.  Rectal bleeding can have straightforward medical explanations such as an anal tear, haemorrhoids, or colitis.  Only a doctor can make a medical assessment so the best thing to do is for your husband to see his GP. They will assess him and decide whether he needs to go for further tests.

I can appreciate there is a lot of uncertainty for you both.

I  hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay for you.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Tina