Blood in stool and low red and white blood cells

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hi

my name is EmanSH

I have been a very grateful visitor of this forum for months now. I have gained so much info and advice which have been invaluable. Any way I managed to do a  profile and I desperately need help. 

My husband  was diagnosed with T2 ( 3+7) PC in April 2025. He is 69 yrs old. He was put HR and had his RT ( 20 sessions) which he finished in October.  It has been 4 months since he finished.

HR seemed to drop his PSA to 0.01 reading so all  has been was ok and we have been quite positive and hopeful until his recent general blood test. 

His blood tests showed a drop in red blood and white blood cell so GP ordered stool screen and we now know there is blood in stool which was not visible to him. 

I am desperately worried if this is a secondary cancer of bowel and blood?

Please can you help? I am losing my mind. I know rectal bleeding and blood urine is aside effect but changes in blood cells I can not find any information. He is trying to remain positive but I some times hear him cry and I feel devastated that I can not help. 

He has been given an oncology appointment but is there anyone we can see and look  into this more? 

thank you so much

  • Hello  and welcome. Firstly don't panic. Both radiotherapy and hormone therapy can affect the red and white blood counts which is why you have regular blood tests. It is well known that the HT can cause anaemia which is shown as a drop in red bloods plus it can affect the immune system with a lowering of white blood counts. Having a good balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables is normally all that is necessary to correct things but if your doctor is worried then they can provide medication to help. Radiotherapy can occasionally affect the bowels months or even years after treatment. If the doctor is worried then they will arrange for tests to check things out.

    The HT had a big effect on my husband emotionally and tears were common. If your husband is struggling with the side effects then there is help for him and something which he needs to speak to his medical team about. Don't forget to look after yourself.