One in 9 new bowel cancer cases now occurs in patients younger than 50 years old.
‘A young friend of mine went missing from our community centre one day. It turned out he had been diagnosed with bowel cancer at the age of just 28,’ shared Dr Kumail Jaffry, a colorectal surgery resident at Dandenong Hospital.
‘This is a stark reminder that this disease can strike even in one’s twenties.’
What is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer (also known as colon cancer) is cancer that starts in the lining of the bowel. It often develops from small growths known as polyps.
If caught early, it can often be cured with surgery. But Dr Jaffry said that because people feel that the symptoms are “embarrassing” to talk about, it’s easily missed and spread before diagnosis.
Younger patients on the rise
Cases in under-50s are rising in Australia. Early symptoms such as bleeding from the back passage, changes in bowel routine, are often brushed off.
‘My friend and his GP initially thought it was just an infection; some younger adults think it is just “spicy food”. Raising awareness helps people overcome embarrassment and seek care sooner,’ Dr Jaffry said.
He said bowel cancer can present with a variety of symptoms, including blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue.
‘Working with patients in the colorectal unit has shown me how important early detection is. It’s important for individuals to be aware of the signs and seek medical advice if they experience any unusual changes in their bowel habits,’ Dr Jaffry said.
Bowel cancer doesn’t just affect the elderly
For decades, bowel cancer was seen as an “old person’s disease.”
‘Many people think bowel cancer only affects older people in their 80s. They put their symptoms, such as bleeding, down to “just haemorrhoids or piles.” Patients who do not have to have cancer in their family can also be diagnosed with bowel cancer,’ Dr Jafry said.
Recent research shows that while most cases still occur in people over 50, cases in younger adults have surged. A 260% increase over the past 30 years now accounts for more than 28,000 early diagnoses.
That means people in their 20s and 30s, including new parents, apprentices, and young professionals, are hearing the words “You have bowel cancer” at a higher rate than their parents’ generation.
As for Dr Jaffry’s friend, he said he had a surgery and is currently undergoing chemotherapy as the cancer has spread to his other organs.
So, what can we do?
Know the symptoms: Blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue are never “normal.”
Start the conversation: Yes, talking about poo feels awkward, but do it anyway.
Screen early before it’s late: Australians aged 45-49 can request a free home stool test kit here. Under-45s should chat with their GP about their individual risk. Over 70% of Australians diagnosed with bowel cancer now have a five-year survival rate.
Raise awareness: Simply talking about bowel health with loved ones helps reduce stigma and could encourage someone to get their symptoms checked.
Colorectal specialists often urge patients not to wait to get checked.
‘There are many young people walking into our clinics thinking, “it’s probably nothing,” or “I’m too young for this”,’ Dr Jaffry said.
‘Your gut is worth listening to. A bit of awkwardness with your GP is a small price to pay for peace of mind, which could save your life. And if you’re scared, that’s okay too, but don’t let fear take precedence over your health.’
June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month. Find out how you can share your story and show your support for everyone living with or beyond bowel cancer and their loved ones here.