Bowel cancer treatment in Manchester

Private bowel cancer treatment at The Alexandra Hospital in Manchester 

At The Alexandra Hospital, our oncology team provides expert support, care and treatment for people living with bowel cancer. While many of our patients are from Manchester, others travel from further afield for their private oncology treatment. 

Cancer affects everybody differently and we know just how hard a cancer diagnosis can be to you and your loved ones. When you choose to have your cancer treatment at The Alexandra Hospital, you will be looked after every step of the way, with treatment tailored to your specific needs.  

Our highly experienced multidisciplinary team is led by Oncology Consultants from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and some of the largest teaching hospitals in the UK. Bowel cancer treatment is delivered by oncologists, colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists. Our dedicated Oncology unit offers easy access to onsite state-of-the-art technology, including MRI, CT scanning, and Nuclear Medicine where required. 

You will have access to investigations, treatment and follow-up care in a supportive hospital environment, with a focus on personalised treatment planning and clear communication. 

What is bowel cancer? 

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is cancer that starts in your colon – also known as your large bowel – or in your rectum (back passage). It often develops from pre-cancerous growths called polyps, and it’s one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. When caught early, it’s highly treatable. 

What is the cure rate for bowel cancer?

The likelihood of curing bowel cancer depends on several important factors, including: 

• The stage of the cancer at diagnosis (how far it has grown or spread) 
• The exact location of the cancer in the bowel 
• Your age, general health and any other medical conditions 
• How well the cancer responds to treatment 

In general, bowel cancers diagnosed at an early stage, before they have spread beyond the bowel wall or local lymph nodes, have a better chance of successful treatment. More advanced cancers may still be treated effectively, but the goals of treatment may differ, for example focusing on control and symptom management rather than cure. 

Your consultant at The Alexandra Hospital will: 

• Explain your individual stage and test results 
• Discuss the treatment options recommended for you 
• Talk through the aims of treatment in your situation 
• Answer your questions about outlook and follow-up 

It is important to remember that statistics are based on large groups of people and cannot predict exactly what will happen in any individual case. Your team will support you with clear, personalised information. 

What symptoms can bowel cancer cause?

Common symptoms of bowel cancer can include: 

• A persistent change in bowel habit (for example, looser stools, going more often or constipation) 
• Blood in your stools or on the toilet paper 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort 
• Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely 
• Unexplained tiredness or anaemia (low red blood cells) 

These symptoms can also be caused by many other, less serious conditions. However, if they persist for more than a few weeks, or you are worried, you should seek medical advice. 

At The Alexandra Hospital, your consultant can: 

• Take a detailed history and examine you 
• Arrange investigations such as colonoscopy, CT colonography or other imaging 
• Discuss the results with you and advise on appropriate treatment or further tests 

What treatments are available for bowel cancer? 

Treatment for bowel cancer may include: 

• Surgery to remove the part of the bowel containing the cancer, sometimes with nearby lymph nodes 
• Chemotherapy, either before or after surgery, depending on the stage 
• Radiotherapy, particularly for rectal cancers 
• Targeted therapies and immunotherapies in selected cases 

Your care at The Alexandra Hospital will be planned by a multidisciplinary team, which may include colorectal surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and specialist nurses. They will work together to design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

Why choose The Alexandra Hospital for bowel cancer treatment in Manchester?

Choosing private bowel cancer care at The Alexandra Hospital offers: 

• Rapid access to consultant colorectal surgeons and oncologists 
• Modern diagnostic and imaging facilities 
• Individualised treatment plans and clear explanations 
• Comfortable private rooms if you need to stay in hospital 
• Ongoing follow-up and supportive care from an experienced clinical team 

We know a cancer diagnosis is always hard to face, but we’re here for you every step of the way. 

How to book bowel cancer treatment in Manchester 

To book a consultation to discuss bowel cancer treatment with an oncologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.