Tejal Somvanshi
Bowel cancer rates in young Australians have more than doubled since 2000, with experts suggesting diet choices and environmental factors may be behind the alarming trend.
The disease has become the deadliest cancer for Australians aged 25-44, despite this age group falling below the national screening program cut-off of 45 years, according to recent health data.
Most concerning is the 266 percent increase over three decades among those aged 15-24 – a demographic traditionally considered at low risk.
“Some theories are it could well be related to accelerated ageing in a younger population,” Bowel Cancer Australia CEO Julien Wiggins told media. “It could be to do with gut bacteria in the microbiome, for example, and even microplastics.”
Colorectal surgeon Dr. De Lacavalerie noted that most young patients she operates on have no family history of bowel cancer, suggesting lifestyle factors may be driving the increase.
“We are eating way too much meat in Australia, and in particular New Zealand, which has the highest incidence in the world of bowel cancer,” she said.
Experts also point to low fiber consumption as a critical factor. Oncologist Tobias Arkenau explained: “A low fiber diet slows down the gut. If toxins don’t move out of the organ it can sit there and eventually cause inflammation and possibly a higher risk of bowel cancer.”
Health guidelines recommend 30g of fiber daily, found in vegetables, pulses, and wholegrains.
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The global trend of increasing bowel cancer in younger adults has been observed since the 1990s, accompanied by advances in genetic research and treatment options. Researchers have recently identified over 250 key genes involved in bowel cancer, opening pathways to improved screening and personalized treatment.
Despite these medical advances, young patients often face delayed diagnosis as symptoms are dismissed due to their age. Beth Tudehope, who died at 38, initially had her symptoms downplayed.
“They gave her some medication and said go home and hopefully that would be the end of it – and she said no, I’m just not right,” her father, Peter Tudehope, recounted. “This is not an old person’s disease – this is a young person’s disease.”
Australian health statistics show bowel cancer remains a significant health burden. In 2023, an estimated 15,367 new cases were diagnosed, making it the fourth most common cancer in the country. That same year, approximately 5,307 Australians died from the disease.
While survival rates have improved from 55% to 71% between 1990-1994 and 2015-2019, experts stress that early detection remains crucial. Common symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
As Tracey Robinson, diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer at 38, noted, stigma can delay diagnosis: “You don’t want to sit and talk about your bowel movements, so it is something that you don’t really want to advertise or want to bring up.”
Health authorities encourage Australians to order bowel screening tests through Bowel Cancer Australia or visit local pharmacies, particularly if experiencing potential symptoms.
What are the warning signs of bowel cancer?
Common symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation), blood in stool, abdominal pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a feeling of incomplete emptying after bowel movements. These symptoms should prompt a medical consultation, especially if they persist for more than two weeks.
Why is bowel cancer increasing in young people?
Experts suggest several factors: excessive meat consumption, low-fiber diets, changes in gut bacteria, possible effects of microplastics, and what some call “accelerated aging” in younger populations. Most young patients have no family history, suggesting environmental and lifestyle factors are significant contributors.
What age should screening for bowel cancer begin?
In Australia, the national screening program starts at age 45, having been lowered from 50. However, with rising cases in younger adults, some experts suggest those with symptoms should seek testing regardless of age. Australians can order screening tests through Bowel Cancer Australia or local pharmacies.
How can I reduce my risk of developing bowel cancer?
Health experts recommend consuming at least 30g of fiber daily from vegetables, pulses, and wholegrains; reducing red and processed meat intake; maintaining physical activity; limiting alcohol consumption; avoiding smoking; and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular bowel screening is also important for early detection.
What is the survival rate for bowel cancer?
In Australia, the five-year survival rate has improved from 55% to 71% between 1990-1994 and 2015-2019. Survival chances are significantly better when the cancer is detected early, highlighting the importance of recognizing symptoms and participating in screening programs.
Is bowel cancer hereditary?
While some bowel cancers have a genetic component, most young patients have no family history of the disease. This suggests that environmental factors and lifestyle choices play a significant role in the development of bowel cancer, particularly in younger age groups where cases are rising rapidly.
