Bowel cancer rates rising among young people worldwide, study finds

A study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals that bowel cancer rates are rising among younger people worldwide, with some of the sharpest increases seen in England.

In the United Kingdom, about 120 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer each day, making it the fourth most common cancer in the country, warns Bowel Cancer UK.

While some causes are genetic and beyond individual control, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates that 54% of bowel cancer cases could be prevented through changes in diet and lifestyle.

Nearly half (47%) of these preventable cases are related to diet, broken down as follows:

13% of risk comes from consuming processed or red meat.

A review published in Annals of Oncology found that the risk of developing bowel cancer rises by 22% for every 100 grams of red meat eaten daily, and by 18% for every 50 grams consumed.

Bowel Cancer UK warns that eating red and processed meat can increase bowel cancer risk by 13% overall.

Examples of processed meats include:

-Sausages, bacon, and ham

-Deli meats such as salami

-Tinned meats like corned beef

-Sliced meats (including chicken and turkey) and pâté.

Red meats include lamb, beef, mutton, pork, venison, and veal.

The UKHSA recommends reducing red and processed meat intake to less than 70 grams per day if current consumption is higher.

28% of risk is linked to low fibre intake.

Most adults need about 30 grams of fibre daily, but 90% of people fall short, averaging only around 20 grams, according to the NHS.

A 2011 study showed that every 10-gram increase in daily fibre consumption may lower bowel cancer risk by 10%.

Bowel Cancer UK reports that inadequate fibre intake can raise bowel cancer risk by up to 28%.

Wholegrain versions of bread, rice, and pasta contain more fibre than their white counterparts. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and wholegrain cereals (such as oats, bulgur, and even popcorn) also help meet fibre needs.

6% of risk is associated with excessive alcohol consumption.

Some meta-analyses of cancer research indicate that bowel cancer risk increases by 4% for every two units of alcohol consumed daily, by 17% for those drinking up to six units, and by 33% for those drinking more than six units daily. Bowel Cancer UK estimates alcohol accounts for about 6% of bowel cancer risk overall.

The UKHSA states that 54% of bowel cancer risk stems from lifestyle-related factors, highlighting the importance of dietary and behavioral changes for prevention.