First Dates' Merlin Griffiths ignored early signs of bowel cancer due to 'male bravado'

Virgin Radio

29 Sep 2022, 16:21

TV star Merlin Griffiths has admitted that he brushed off the early signs of bowel cancer because of 'male bravado'. The First Dates barman was diagnosed with a stage three tumour in September 2021, but admitted he ignored the early warning signs of pain in his abdomen and changes to his bowel movements.

Thinking it was related to scar tissue from an accident, he shared: "It was that typical male reticence thing of going - 'oh I'm fine', 'it's nothing really', 'I'll be alright'."

He told The Sun: "I tried to convince myself that the pain just wasn't important. I managed to pull the wool over my own eyes for a worryingly long time.

"This could have all been avoided if I'd seen my GP when my symptoms first began."

On Wednesday, Merlin told BBC Breakfast about the 'long and slow' road to recovery. When asked how he was, Merlin replied: "Very well, thank you very much. All things considered. On the road to recovery, it's long and slow but we'll get there.

"I should have got there earlier but I did get there. I think it's very important that people follow up these symptoms. The sooner you catch it better it is for you."

Talking about his family, he shared: "They have been a rock throughout this. Without the support of my family, what could I have done?"

'I did it very frankly and very honestly', he said. 'I think much like doctors will speak to patients. You literally have to say the truth as it is.

'I tried to sweep it under the carpet but I should have taken it more seriously. The initial checks aren't very invasive and are very easy and quick to do.'

It comes after Merlin has given fans an update on his bowel cancer treatment, revealing he recently suffered a 'minor setback' in the 'long, slow road to recovery'.

The 3 main symptoms of bowel cancer are 'blood in the stools (faeces), changes in bowel habit – such as more frequent, looser stools – and abdominal (tummy) pain'.