Rising Rates of Early-Onset Bowel Cancer in Young Adults: A Global Phenomenon

Strategic Insights -

A disturbing trend of rising rates of early-onset bowel cancer is affecting people aged 25-49, with women being particularly impacted. According to a major paper published in The Lancet Oncology, this global phenomenon is seen in 27 out of 50 countries and territories studied. In England, the rate of early-onset bowel cancer rose by 3.6% per year over the decade to 2017, making it the fourth fastest rise in Europe.

Key Takeaways:

  • The rate of early-onset bowel cancer is rising globally, affecting people aged 25-49, with women being particularly impacted.
  • The American Cancer Society-led research team found increasing rates of bowel cancer in younger adults in 27 out of the 50 countries and territories studied.
  • England experienced the fourth fastest 3.6% per year rise in the rate of early-onset bowel cancer in the decade to 2017.
  • Nicola Smith, Senior Health Information Manager at Cancer Research UK, confirms that globally and in the UK, there is an increase in rates of early onset bowel cancer affecting people aged 25-49.
  • Smith notes that there is no clear answer about the causes of the rise in bowel cancer rates in younger adults, and that research is needed to determine why this is happening.
  • The Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK has pledged £5million over 5 years to help uncover the causes of bowel cancer in young people.
  • Fibre is more important than protein in reducing the risk of bowel cancer, and most UK adults do not get enough fibre in their diet.
  • Incorporating a mix of soluble and insoluble fibre into the diet can help lower the risk of bowel cancer.
  • Up to 50% of bowel cancer cases could be prevented through a combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and cardiovascular exercise.

Statistics:

  • 27 countries and territories experienced a rise in bowel cancer rates in younger adults (The Lancet Oncology)
  • England experienced a 3.6% per year rise in early-onset bowel cancer rates between 2007-2017 (The Lancet Oncology)
  • Women are more likely to be affected by the rise in early-onset bowel cancer (Cancer Research UK)
  • 45% of UK adults increased their protein intake in 2024, but half do not get enough fibre in their diet (Savanta for Ocado Retail)

Sources:

  • The Lancet Oncology
  • Cancer Research UK (Nicola Smith, Senior Health Information Manager)
  • British Nutrition Foundation
  • Savanta for Ocado Retail