Researchers from the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical firm Moderna have developed a vaccine that may prevent bowel and ovarian cancer. The first trial is to be this summer, and it will try to see if the vaccine can train the immune system to recognize and eliminate pre-cancerous cells in people with Lynch syndrome before cancer develops.In the United Kingdom, one in 300 people has Lynch syndrome, an inherited health condition that massively increases the chance of contracting cancers like bowel and ovarian cancer.What Is Colorectal Cancer?Colorectal cancer is the umbrella term for both colon and rectal cancer. As the name also suggests, colon cancers happen only in the colon, but if it is left untreated, it can spread to different organs in your body. Colorectal cancer begins inside the rectal tissues or the colon walls. It presents itself in the earliest stages as small masses, known as polyps. If a polyp becomes cancerous, it can spread cancer from the inner part of the colon to the lymph nodes or bloodstream. If this happens, cancer can then quickly move throughout the system. Early Symptoms Of Colorectal CancerPersistent changes in bowel habits, especially if they last more than a few days, must be taken seriously. Narrow or ribbon-shaped stools may indicate a tumor partially blocking the colon.Blood in the stool is one of the most common and concerning signs. While it might be due to hemorrhoids or fissures, it’s important not to assume. A proper evaluation is critical.Unexplained weight loss: Especially when unintentional.Abdominal cramps or bloating: Misinterpreted as common digestive issues.Also Read: Salmonella Outbreak: Instant Noodles Sicken Over 80 In The UK, EuropeWhat Is Ovarian Cancer?Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest gynecological cancers and is often referred to as the “silent killer” because its early symptoms are vague and easily mistaken for common digestive or urinary issues.It develops when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow uncontrollably and may spread to other parts of the body. Survival rates are significantly higher when detected early—around 93 per cent of women diagnosed at stage one survive at least five years, compared to just 13 per cent at stage four, according to the American Cancer Society.Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, when treatment options are limited, and outcomes are poorer.Early Symptoms Often Overlooked“Ovarian cancer is commonly called a ‘silent disease’ because its early signs are vague and often resemble routine gastric issues,” Dr. Tejinder Kataria, Chairperson – Radiation Oncology, Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, told HealthandMe.Common symptoms include:Persistent bloatingFeeling full quickly or reduced appetitePelvic or abdominal discomfortUnexplained constipation or diarrheaOngoing indigestionExcessive gasAbdominal heavinessDr. Parminder Kaur, Consultant Gynaecologic Oncologist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told HealthandMe that the key concern is when symptoms become frequent, persistent, and unusual for an individual’s normal health pattern.