Bowel cancer rise sparks calls for early screening

Professor James East, consultant gastroenterologist and medical director at Welbeck Oxford, is urging greater awareness during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

He is especially concerned about increased risk among under-50s and those with a family history of the disease.

Professor East said: “In the US, screening is already recommended from 45.

“This reflects a clear shift in disease patterns, with colorectal cancer now the leading cause of cancer death in under-50s.”

Bowel cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in adults under 50 in the United States, according to American Medical Association research.

In England, NHS screening begins at age 50 using the FIT test, but diagnoses are rising in younger adults.

International evidence points to an increase in early-onset colorectal cancer, and experts fear current screening cut-offs may overlook people at risk.

Professor East said: “Younger patients are not routinely screened and symptoms are often attributed to benign conditions, leading to later diagnosis.”

Colorectal cancer generally develops from precancerous polyps over 10 to 15 years, creating an opportunity for prevention through early detection.

Screening can identify and remove these polyps before they turn cancerous.

When caught at stage one, survival rates exceed 90 per cent, but this drops below 20 per cent by stage four.

Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, bleeding, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain, though early disease may present without signs.

Risk factors include family history, inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, and lifestyle factors.

A Mediterranean-style diet and regular exercise may lower risk but do not eliminate it.

Screening options include FIT, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, and colonoscopy – considered the most thorough, as it allows for both detection and removal of polyps during the procedure.

Welbeck Oxford is set to open a new clinic in 2026 offering advanced endoscopy services, including AI-assisted detection and high-definition imaging.

Professor East added: “One in 20 people will develop bowel cancer.

“Screening saves lives, but only if people take part.

“If you are eligible, do not delay.

“If you are younger but at higher risk, seek advice and consider earlier assessment.”

Welbeck Health Partners is investing more than £30 million in the Oxford site, which will deliver multidisciplinary care across digestive health, cardiology, ENT, respiratory medicine and genetics.

The call for action comes as part of growing awareness that earlier screening could save lives, particularly among those currently outside routine testing age.