While research has previously noted that bowel cancer rates among young adults are rising, more recent data from Cancer Research UK notes there’s more to worry about. Not only are colorectal and other types of cancer rates impacting more young people, but the rate is increasing in many developed nations. 

Bowel Cancer Rates Rise in 27 Out of 50 Countries

The study examined bowel cancer rates among young adults in 50 countries between 2007 and 2017. Many of the nations with rising bowel cancer rates were developed countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and European nations. Interestingly, some developing countries also made the list, reflecting a relatively widespread global rise in cases. 

The ratio of young adults with diagnosis remains a relatively low share of the total diagnoses, but it is growing. In the UK, young adults account for approximately one in 20 bowel cancers, and that’s only including adults 50 or younger. 

The full report was first published in The Lancet.

What Causes Bowel Cancer In Young Adults?

There are many possible explanations for the troubling rise in bowel cancer diagnoses. Experts believe the largest factors are poor diet and obesity, both of which are at epidemic levels in many developed countries, including the United States. There’s a growing body of research linking processed meat intake and bowel cancers, partially colorectal varieties. The risk factors include:

  • Alcohol consumption
  • Poor diet
  • Obesity
  • Smoking

Improved detection methods are also a factor, as they may improve diagnosis outcomes by identifying cancers and beginning treatment earlier. 

Read more: Zyn Pouches: Safer Than Chewing Tobacco?

Bowel Cancer Warning Signs

The increase in bowel cancer rates should be yet another signal for young adults to take a more proactive approach to their health. In addition to maintaining a healthy weight and alcohol and smoking cessation, it’s important to watch for other early signs of bowel cancers. Some of the most common signs of early-stage bowel cancer are:

  • Changes in bowel habits, particularly more frequent, looser stool
  • Black, loose stool
  • Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or general discomfort

Prevention Is the Path Forward

At Less Cancer, we believe prevention should be a cornerstone of US and international cancer policy. For over a decade, we’ve worked to provide educational programming and enact policy-shifting advocacy closer to the center of the cancer dialogue. You can help; consider donating to Less Cancer’s ambitious initiatives and make cancer prevention front and center.