Man’s “Dodgy Sausage” Pain Was Actually Stage 4 Cancer
A 44-year-old British father, Matt Eamer, mistook his stomach cramps for simple indigestion after a family barbecue. What he believed was a reaction to a “dodgy sausage” turned out to be something far more serious. Doctors later diagnosed him with stage 4 bowel cancer after discovering a large blockage in his intestine.
Sudden Pain That Wouldn’t Go Away
Matt first felt sharp, spiky stomach pain during his son’s second birthday party. Assuming it was food-related, he took painkillers and tried to carry on. However, when the pain worsened, his wife, Sarah, rushed him to a hospital in Surrey. Tests revealed a severe intestinal blockage, which further investigations confirmed was bowel cancer.
Doctors explained that the initial stomach pain – often described as “gripping” – is one of the early warning signs of bowel cancer that people commonly dismiss as indigestion or food poisoning.
From Surgery to a Stage 4 Diagnosis
Matt underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumour, followed by six months of chemotherapy. However, during a later operation to treat his liver, doctors found the cancer had already spread to his abdominal lining (peritoneum). Tests showed he carried a BRAF gene mutation, which causes cancer cells to multiply aggressively.
His medical team warned that his cancer was advancing quickly and gave him only months to live. “Hitting five years with stage four is a rarity,” Matt recalled, describing the shock of his prognosis.
Hope Through New Treatment
Despite the grim outlook, Matt was offered a new line of treatment with targeted immunotherapy. He began receiving cetuximab infusions along with pills called encorafenib. Encouragingly, his body has responded well, giving him valuable extra time with his family.
What Is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colon cancer, begins in the large intestine when abnormal growths called polyps form in the inner lining. If left untreated, these polyps can turn into cancer and spread to nearby organs through the bloodstream or lymph nodes.
What Increases the Risk?
Like many cancers, bowel cancer is linked to lifestyle and genetic factors. Some of the major risks include:
- Smoking and tobacco use – including chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes
- Heavy alcohol use
- Obesity and junk food diets
- Eating too much red or processed meat, such as bacon, sausage, and deli meats
- Lack of physical activity
Adopting a healthier lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine screening can help reduce the risk.
Conclusion
Matt’s story is a stark reminder that what seems like simple indigestion could, in rare cases, be a sign of something serious like stage 4 bowel cancer. Paying attention to persistent stomach pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained fatigue can make all the difference between early treatment and late-stage diagnosis.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 20 August 2025
- 20:00
