A rising concern: Bowel cancer and young adults
The recent passing of actor James Van Der Beek, who battled colorectal cancer, has brought this disease into the spotlight. But here's the shocking truth: bowel cancer rates are on the rise among younger individuals, and it's time we address this issue head-on.
Bowel cancer, or colorectal cancer, occurs when cells in the large intestine grow uncontrollably. In Australia, it's the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer, with approximately one in 21 men and one in 25 women expected to be diagnosed by age 85. However, our research reveals a worrying trend: an increase in bowel cancer rates among younger Australians.
So, what does this mean for young adults? Should they be concerned? Absolutely. And here's why.
Who's at risk?
Australia has one of the highest bowel cancer rates globally, and it's the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. About half of all cases are linked to lifestyle factors, including alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of physical activity, diets high in red and processed meats, and low fiber intake. The other half is influenced by uncontrollable factors like genetics, inflammatory bowel disease, and age.
Current data suggests the average Australian has a one in 23 chance of being diagnosed with bowel cancer by age 85. Our 2019 research specifically looked at bowel and rectal cancer in people aged 50 and below, and the results were alarming. Between 1982 and 2014, the average rates of both cancers in this age group increased by 1% to 9% annually, a trend that demands our attention.
While we're not entirely sure what's driving this increase, lifestyle changes over time, such as poor diet, increased alcohol intake, and physical inactivity, are suspected contributors. Additionally, we often diagnose younger people later because their symptoms are either overlooked or attributed to other, less serious conditions.
In contrast, bowel cancer rates in Australians over 50 have been declining since the 1990s, likely due to screening and treatment advancements. Despite these opposing trends, bowel cancer remains more common in older adults, with 1,884 cases in people under 50 compared to 13,020 in those over 50 in 2021.
Can I reduce my risk?
Absolutely. Here are three key strategies:
- Poo Test: Bowel cancer is one of the few cancers we can effectively screen for. Screening can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous, and it can also diagnose cancer at an early stage when treatment is simpler and survival rates are as high as 90%.
In Australia, the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program offers a free at-home stool test every two years. This test checks for small traces of blood in the stool, which could indicate a polyp or cancer. Originally, this program was only offered to those aged 50 to 74, but with the rising rates among younger Australians, the guidelines have been revised, now recommending screening start at age 45.
As of July 2024, Australians aged 45 to 49 can request a stool kit as part of this program. In the first six months of the expansion, 77,000 eligible Australians aged 45 to 49 requested a kit. Younger Australians must opt-in by requesting a kit through the National Cancer Screening Register, but for those with a family history of bowel cancer, a screening colonoscopy might be more suitable, so consult with your GP.
- Symptom Awareness: Bowel cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is crucial. However, some symptoms to watch out for include changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, visible blood in stool, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and anemia (a condition where your body lacks enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen).
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to speak to your GP. Additionally, inform your GP about any family history of bowel cancer, especially if a close relative was diagnosed under age 60, as this increases your risk.
- Healthy Living: Adopting a healthier lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer. This includes following a diet rich in whole grains, legumes, and vegetables while limiting processed meat, staying active with at least 30 minutes of activity most days, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.
In conclusion, bowel cancer is a serious concern, but by being proactive through regular screening, symptom awareness, and healthy living, we can reduce our risk. Remember, it's never too early to take control of your health.
