Constipation + bleeding are not symptoms of bowel cancer. Factually incorrect. In fact, constipation can cause bleeding.

Red flags that we look for: diarrhoea and bleeding for 6 weeks if over 40yrs old; rectal bleeding alone for 6 weeks at age 60+; diarrhoea without bleeding for 6 weeks and age 60+.

But that first doctor was hopeless. He would have been of the product of the time when there was no formal training for GP. Nowadays, the exams are as hard as those who become consultants in other specialties.

If you have the chance of finding a good doctor, latch onto them because they are like gold dust.
Mine sent me a personal letter t'other day giving me advice on various things

My doctors keep dying. I'm on my fourth GP in a decade, all popping off unexpectedly although through natural causes. I have a feeling if my current one keels over, they may deregister me.

Jon

In France the doctors are very quick on the uptake and they will run dozens of tests within days without really asking details beforehand.

So 99.5% of GPs are fine? Sounds like some people expect 100% perfect GPs. You've got to remember that 50% of GPs will be above average.

My doctors keep dying. I'm on my fourth GP in a decade, all popping off unexpectedly although through natural causes. I have a feeling if my current one keels over, they may deregister me.

Jon

I don't expect doctors to make no mistakes. However I expect them to be trained enough not to throw terrible news at people's face in a casual manner.