Overview

• 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.