Bowel Cancer

Travel Insurance for Bowel Cancer Patients

We have one of the highest rates of bowel cancer per capita in the world. Around 3,500 people are diagnosed each year, making it one of the most common cancers affecting Kiwis seeking travel insurance.

Is Travel Insurance Available?

Yes — bowel cancer is assessable by all major travel insurance providers. The outcome depends significantly on:

• Stage of the original diagnosis
• Whether surgery has been completed (hemicolectomy, anterior resection, abdominoperineal resection)
• Presence of a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy)
• Active chemotherapy status — particularly FOLFOX or FOLFIRI regimens
• Evidence of metastatic disease (liver metastases particularly common with bowel cancer)
• Time since last treatment

People who have completed treatment and are in surveillance (post-surgery, no evidence of recurrence) generally have a good chance of obtaining cover with an additional premium. Active metastatic disease is more difficult.

Travelling With a Stoma

If you have a permanent or temporary colostomy or ileostomy, travelling requires considerable planning beyond just the insurance. Most airlines are comfortable with ostomates, and there are no restrictions on flying with a stoma. However:

• Supplies: Pack at minimum double your expected supply in your carry-on luggage. Stoma bags, flanges, pastes, and accessories are not readily available in all overseas destinations. Pharmacies in Japan, Australia, and the UK generally have good availability; rural Fiji or Pacific Islands may have none.
• Security: Empty your pouch before going through airport security. You are legally entitled to a private screening if requested. Carry an ostomate travel card (available from Ostomy New Zealand).
• Airline meals: Pre-order a low-residue or plain meal to reduce output on long flights. Avoid gas-producing foods (carbonated drinks, legumes, brassicas) in the 24 hours before flying.

Dehydration Risk

People with ileostomies are at particular risk of dehydration in hot climates. High output from an ileostomy combined with heat can lead to electrolyte imbalance (particularly sodium and potassium). Carry oral rehydration sachets and be aware of the signs of dehydration. Destinations like Bali, Fiji, Thailand, and the Pacific Islands require extra attention to hydration.

Insurance Assessment for Chemotherapy Patients

If you are currently on FOLFOX or FOLFIRI chemotherapy, you are in the most complex category for travel insurance. Some insurers will assess on a case-by-case basis, but many will decline or exclude chemotherapy-related complications. The insurer needs to know the exact stage of your chemotherapy cycle and your oncologist's view on fitness to travel.

Even if the insurer cannot cover chemotherapy complications, you may still be offered a policy that covers other travel risks (cancellation, baggage, other medical emergencies). This can still be valuable.

Destination Considerations

Prioritise destinations with accessible surgical facilities. Bowel emergencies — obstruction, perforation, abscess — require rapid surgical intervention. Australia, the UK, and Singapore are well-suited. Remote Pacific Islands, rural Southeast Asia, and developing-world destinations carry more risk.

Key Takeaway

Bowel cancer patients can travel, and most can obtain some form of travel insurance. Stoma management requires careful preparation. Declare fully, carry your documentation, and research your destination's medical facilities before booking.