Gut check: Why bowel cancer is rising, and what you can do now

Bowel cancer doesn’t just affect older Australians. Rates are rising in people under 50, and many don’t realise they’re at risk

It’s now the second deadliest cancer in Australia, with more than 14,000 people diagnosed each year. But here’s the good news: if detected early, over 99% of cases can be successfully treated.

That’s why awareness of symptoms, risk factors and screening options is so important. 

In this article, we’ll cover who’s most at risk, what symptoms to watch for, and how to stay on top of screening — no matter your age.

Why is bowel cancer rising in young Australians?

The cause behind the increase in early-onset bowel cancer (in people under 50) is unknown. However, risk factors such as smoking, prolonged sitting, poor diet quality and alcohol consumption are important to consider, alongside a strong focus on early detection. 

What we do know is that rates are rising. Australians born in the 1990s are 2–3 times more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer than those born in the 1950s. More women under the age of 50 are estimated to be diagnosed than men. 

The rate at which bowel cancer numbers are rising in the younger group is particularly concerning. Bowel cancer is estimated to be the leading cause of cancer-related death in men aged under 50 years and second to breast cancer for women aged under 50. It’s also the deadliest cancer for Australians 25-54 years. 

The signs to look out for

For many younger Australians, early symptoms of bowel cancer can be easy to dismiss. Common symptoms like blood in stools, abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits can often be put down to other causes such as food intolerances, a hectic lifestyle or haemorrhoids – which can delay diagnosis and make it harder to treat. 

That’s why Bowel Cancer Australia encourages people not to assume they’re “too young” to have bowel cancer. Instead, be aware of the red flag symptoms and speak to your doctor early if something doesn’t feel right. 

Symptoms may include:

• Persistent changes to bowel habits (such as diarrhoea, constipation or a feeling of not emptying)
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Persistent abdominal discomfort
• Undesired weight loss
• Unexplained fatigue

When to get checked

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms discussed, it’s important to speak with your healthcare professional. Early detection makes a big difference, so don’t delay or dismiss symptoms based on age. 

Here’s what you need to know about bowel cancer screening in Australia:

• Ages 44 and under: Have a conversation with your doctor about screening options
• Ages 45–49: You can request a screening kit through your doctor or the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care website.
• Ages 50–74: You’ll be mailed a free National Bowel Cancer Screening Kit every two years. It’s a simple at-home test. Just follow the instructions and return your sample by post.
• Ages 75–85: Your healthcare provider may recommend screening based on your individual health needs, so it’s worth checking in.

Taking action early — whether it’s booking an appointment or completing a test — is one of the most effective ways to protect your health.

When to speak to a doctor

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family history of bowel cancer, it’s worth checking in with your doctor. They can help you understand your individual risk, recommend the right screening approach, and answer any questions you might have.

In 2023, Australia’s clinical guidelines for bowel cancer were updated to reflect new evidence around early detection, including population screening and personalised recommendations based on family history. Your doctor can help you make sense of what these updates mean for you.

The bottom line

Bowel cancer is a growing concern, but there are things we can do to reduce the risk including living a healthy lifestyle. That includes eating plenty of fruit, vegetables, legumes and wholegrains. 

Yet, many Aussies still fall short. The Living Healthy Report 2025 showed a slight drop in the amount of wholegrains purchased, and found that most of us are only buying about half the recommended amount of vegetables and legumes.

Studies show that a diet rich in wholegrains — around 90g per day (think oats, barley, brown rice, wholemeal bread) — can reduce the risk of bowel cancer by up to 17%. Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption and moving your body regularly are also important steps.

And while prevention matters, so does early detection. When caught in its earliest stages, over 99% of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully.

As Bowel Cancer Australia’s campaign puts it: “Break the taboo and check your poo.”

Reviewed by the Healthylife Advisory Board June 2025