Experts are warning that bowel cancer rates are rising among younger adults, though the exact cause is unclear.
While older people are still more likely to develop the disease, there has been a concerning increase in cases among those under 50, especially in countries like England, where the rate has risen by 3.6% each year.
Researchers believe that factors like a poor diet, obesity, and eating too much processed meat could be contributing to this rise.
This trend is being seen globally, not just in wealthy countries but also in developing ones. The increase in early-onset colorectal cancer has been described as a “global phenomenon.”
Experts are urging people to be aware of early signs, such as blood in stool, a change in bowel habits, or abdominal discomfort.
Despite the rise, bowel cancer still remains rare in younger people. In the UK, only about 1 in 20 cases are diagnosed in those under 50, with around 2,600 cases annually in people aged 25-49.
Some researchers believe better detection and screening could be helping catch cancers earlier, which might explain the increase in diagnoses.
Experts emphasize that while the rise is concerning, more research is needed to understand the reasons behind it.
Dame Deborah James, who passed away from bowel cancer at age 40, campaigned for awareness of the disease, encouraging people to check their bowel movements and get tested if needed.
Her work in spreading awareness continues to inspire many.
This information comes from research published in Lancet Oncology and statements made to the BBC.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr4rnzq47z2o