What to do about the rise of rectal cancer in younger persons?

Recent studies in New Zealand and overseas has clearly shown that bowel cancer is becoming more common (incidence is rising) in people aged less than 50 years of age, especially in the lower bowel and back passage (rectum).

In 2000, only 1 in 20 bowel cancer patients were aged less than 50. It is predicted that in NZ by 2040 that about 1 in 8 colorectal cancer patients will be aged less than 50. These are people we might consider are at their most productive stage of their lives, often caring for their children and aging parents. A cancer diagnosis is devastating at any age, but massively impactful for the younger person. What can be done to avoid this?

There are modifiable lifestyle factors that should be addressed. But not all non-smoking, alcohol free, fit skinny vegetarians avoid bowel cancer. If you are an adult with bowel symptoms, especially rectal bleeding or persisting change in your bowel habit, then see your GP. 

Have a low threshold for getting a colonoscopy.  Know your family medical history, and make sure your GP knows it too. If you have a more than one close relative (parent, brother or sister) with bowel cancer or a close relative under age 55, then you should discuss a referral for a colonoscopy with your GP because you are at least three times more likely to develop bowel cancer.

Screen detected cancers are more likely to be early stage and thus more likely to be cured. The rise of colorectal cancer in the young is adding to the call to lower the screening age in NZ to not just age 50, but to age 45 as is done in the US and Australia.

At Waitemata Endoscopy, taking a proactive approach to your health is easy. If you or your family doctor are concerned, we accept GP, specialist and self-referrals via our website.  Our experienced team will put you at ease when it comes to your endoscopy.  Take a virtual tour of the patient journey and our clinic for an insight of what to expect at www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/locations

Mr Andrew Moot, Colorectal and General Surgeon & Endoscopist, MB ChB 1995 Otago; FRACS 2004