Bowel Cancer Deaths in UK Young Adults Predicted to Rise by 40%

Driven by obesity and alcohol consumption, the UK leads Europe in projected increase, prompting calls for earlier screening and healthier lifestyles.

Bowel cancer death rates among young people in the UK are predicted to rise by up to 40% in 2024, driven by increases in obesity and alcohol consumption.
The UK has the highest projected increase in Europe, with Italy being the only other country expecting a rise in both male and female young adults.
Despite the rise in young people, overall bowel cancer death rates are declining due to decreases among older populations.
Experts suggest governments should promote healthier lifestyles and consider extending cancer screening to younger ages, starting at 45.
While the overall number of people dying from bowel cancer under 50 is still relatively small, the trend is concerning and points to the need for early prevention and detection.