Young adults across the UK face a growing health crisis as bowel cancer diagnoses surge among those under 50, with England recording approximately 3.6 per cent yearly growth in early-onset colorectal cancer cases throughout the last decade.
Scientists have warned that this places the nation among the world's steepest increases alongside New Zealand, Chile and Puerto Rico.
This troubling pattern particularly impacts millennials and Generation Z, populations traditionally considered low-risk for colorectal malignancies.
Young patients frequently dismiss critical warning signs because they attribute symptoms to benign conditions, an expert has warned.
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Colon cancer claims 16,800 lives each year
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Dr Angad Dhillon, a consultant gastroenterologist verified on healthcare platform Doctify, explained that "many people in their 20s or 30s simply don't consider cancer a possibility".
"They often put symptoms like bleeding or bowel changes down to haemorrhoids, stress, or dietary issues, which unfortunately leads to delays in seeking help," he explained.
But medical professionals also struggle with timely identification, Dr Dhillon pointed out.
"Cancer is still considered rare at younger ages, both by patients and doctors," the gastroenterologist shared.
"Early symptoms often resemble less serious conditions like IBS, so it's not always immediately flagged."
The disease affects roughly 44,100 Britons annually, ranking as the nation's fourth most prevalent cancer.
The disease has also established itself as the second-deadliest cancer nationwide, as it claims over 16,800 lives each year. Modern dietary patterns and lifestyle choices appear central to this concerning trend.
Dr Dhillon identified multiple risk factors: "We're seeing increasing links between colorectal cancer and diets high in processed and red meats, particularly those low in fibre.
"Obesity - especially central or belly fat - sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption all appear to contribute."
The roots may trace back to childhood, with factors including early exposure to processed foods, rising childhood obesity rates, and reduced physical activity.
"There's also growing interest in how antibiotic use in childhood may alter the gut microbiome in ways that influence cancer risk later on", Dr Dhillon explained.
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"A diverse, plant-based diet is key. High-fibre foods are also essential - think whole grains, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables," said Dr Dhillon.
He recommended minimising processed meats, ultra-processed foods and excessive alcohol while incorporating fermented foods, oily fish and antioxidant-rich options.
"Staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress all play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut too," he advised.