According to Cancer Research UK, bowel cancer still affects older people far more often, the increase in many countries among the under-50s is concerning. England is one the countries with the biggest rise, averaging a 3.6% increase per year, as published in the Journal – Lancet Oncology
Researchers say poor diet, smoking, alcohol and obesity may be among the risk factors involved, the researchers say. Eating too much processed meat and not enough fibre can increase the risk.
The study, of 50 countries between 2007 and 2017, found 27 had seen a rise in cases among younger people. Many were richer nations but some were developing countries, the investigators, from the American Cancer Society, say.
Knowing the Symptoms is Important to Help Spot Bowel Cancer Early
“The increase in early-onset colorectal cancer is a global phenomenon,” one of the authors, Dr Hyuna Sung, said. “Previous studies have shown this rise in predominately high-income Western countries – but now, it is documented in various economies and regions worldwide.” And people needed to be aware of the early signs and symptoms, such as blood in poo.
Other symptoms can include:
- a persistent change in bowel habit – more frequent, with looser stools
- abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating
Cancer Research UK stressed rates in younger adults remained low, with about one in 20 bowel cancers in the UK diagnosed in under-50s. Of the 44,100 new cases every year in the UK, about 2,600 were in 25-49-year-olds.
While the headline might seem worrying in isolation, it could also mean that improved screening is allowing early detection.