Researchers said attitudes needed to change to get survival rates up.

23 August 2011 Last updated at 00:44

Awareness about bowel cancer is still “stubbornly low” – despite it being the second biggest cause of cancer deaths in the UK, a study suggests.

The Cancer Research UK-funded survey showed that many people did not know that lifestyle factors such as diet, weight and exercise affected risk.

The research, involving more than 1,500 people, also raised concerns about the lack of knowledge about symptoms.

Blocking this protein may prevent the development of cancer at an early stage as well as blocking its growth

By Jeremy Laurance, Health Editor

Monday, 22 August 2011

A naturally occurring molecule in bacteria can block the development of breast cancer, scientists have discovered, paving the way for the design of more potent and selective drugs.

The molecule, thiostrepton, clamps FOXM1, a cancer-causing protein present in greater amounts in breast cancer cells. It switches on genes regulating the growth and division of cells, causes tumours to spread and triggers the growth of blood vessels.

15 August 2011 Last updated at 17:04

Cancer Research UK said the study provided fresh understanding of ways to stop cancer spreading.

By James Gallagher Health reporter, BBC News

They say they have identified a protein called JAK which helps cancerous cells generate the force needed to move.

Writing in Cancer Cell, they say the cells contract like muscle to force their way out and around the body.

Cancer Research UK said the study provided fresh understanding of ways to stop cancer spreading.