Bowel Cancer Increasing Rapidly Among Younger Adults, Study Warns

ISLAMABAD: Bowel cancer was long considered a disease affecting mostly older adults, but recent years have seen a worrying shift, with cases rising rapidly among younger people worldwide.

Medical experts are increasingly concerned as a growing number of bowel cancer diagnoses are being reported in individuals under the age of 50. A new study published in The Lancet Oncology highlights this alarming trend.

According to the research, between 2013 and 2017, cases of bowel cancer among people under 50 increased in 27 out of 50 countries analyzed. The highest number of cases was recorded in North America and Europe, but significant increases were also observed in Eastern Europe, South, Central and Southeast Asia, as well as South America.

Researchers believe the rise is largely driven by global lifestyle changes. Shifts in dietary habits, reduced physical activity, urbanization, and environmental factors are considered major contributors.

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Diet was identified as the leading risk factor for bowel cancer. High consumption of ultra-processed foods, red and processed meat, and sugary drinks increases inflammation in the body, raising the risk of cancer. A study conducted in Kazakhstan found that meat consumption had nearly doubled, contributing to dietary imbalance and a higher cancer risk.

Obesity was also highlighted as a major risk factor. Excess body fat can trigger chronic inflammation and disrupt metabolic functions. However, researchers noted that obesity’s role may be complex, as some analyses show many bowel cancer patients experience weight loss before diagnosis.

Genetic factors also play an important role, according to experts.

Despite the importance of early detection, symptoms of bowel cancer are often overlooked. Common warning signs include changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, and persistent abdominal discomfort.

Health experts stress that increased awareness and early screening are essential to reduce the rising burden of bowel cancer among younger populations.