Recently on the ABC Radio National Breakfast Show, Professor Mark Jenkins, Head of the Colorectal Cancer Unit at the University of Melbourne, spoke about a growing health challenge in Australia — the dramatic rise of bowel cancer in people under 50.
According to Professor Jenkins, an Australian born in 1990 is up to three times more likely to develop bowel cancer at a young age than someone born in the 1950s.
This alarming trend underscores a significant health issue we’re currently facing in this country and highlights the importance of awareness, vigilance and early intervention.
Why Are Younger Australians At Risk?
The reasons for this increase aren’t entirely clear, but Professor Jenkins highlights a range of potential contributors — from rising obesity rates and lower physical activity, to the presence of microplastics in the environment and a shift in the gut microbiome — that may collectively be putting more young Australians at risk.
The Positive News — Successful Treatments If Caught Early
The good news is that if bowel cancer is identified early, the success rate for treatment is very high. That’s why we’re strong advocates for vigilant health monitoring and routine testing.
Why Screening Is So Important — And How We Can Support You
Bowel cancer screening is the best tool we have to reduce the impact of this disease. Australians aged 45-49 are now eligible for a free National Bowel Cancer Screening kit, and we strongly encourage everyone in this age group to take advantage of this simple, lifesaving test.
If you have a strong family history of bowel cancer, or you notice any red-flag symptoms, we advise you to see your GP promptly for further investigation.
Some symptoms to watch for include:
- Unusual bowel motions, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a feeling of incomplete emptying
- Inconsistent bowel movements, including thin stools
- Traces of blood in the stools
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping
- Pain or lumps in the anus or rectum
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue, weakness, or anaemia
- Traces of blood in the urine or frequently needing to urinate
How We Support Your Health
At The Centre for Gastrointestinal Health, we’re here to support you once you have a referral from your GP. Our team of gastroenterologists can provide a specialist consultation, perform a colonoscopy if required, and guide you through follow-up care.
To learn more about our Bowel Cancer Screening Services, please click here or contact us today. Together, we can take a proactive approach to protecting your health and reducing your risk of bowel cancer.
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