When it comes to bowel (colorectal) cancer, many people assume it’s a disease of older age — but the facts show it’s increasingly affecting younger Australians.
“Too Young to Have Bowel Cancer”? Think Again
You might have heard the phrase: “You’re too young to have bowel cancer.” The truth is, that statement is misleading. Although most diagnoses occur after age 50, around 1 in 9 (11 %) of Australians diagnosed with bowel cancer are under the age of 50.
Why the Rising Rates Matter
- Bowel cancer has become the deadliest cancer for Australians aged 25-54.
- The risk of being diagnosed before age 40 has more than doubled since the year 2000.
- Rates in younger age groups (adolescents and young adults) have increased by up to 266% over three decades.
- Younger people often face delayed diagnosis, spending months or even years visiting multiple doctors before being referred for investigation.
Know the Symptoms — and Act on Them
Many younger patients are told their symptoms are likely from less serious causes like haemorrhoids, stress, food intolerance or just “getting older”. However, key warning signs of bowel cancer include:
- Blood in or on the stool.
- Persistent abdominal pain.
- Change in bowel habits (such as diarrhoea or constipation) lasting more than a few weeks.
- Unexplained weight loss.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, don’t accept “too young for cancer” as a reason to delay further investigation — speak with your GP about referral for investigation.
What Younger Patients Face — Beyond the Diagnosis
Young people diagnosed with bowel cancer often have additional challenges:
- Because of age bias, investigations may be delayed and diagnosis reached at a later stage.
- Issues like fertility, body image, career planning, relationships and emotional wellbeing are more prominent.
- Being told “this is a disease of older people” can contribute to feelings of isolation or not being heard.
Taking Proactive Steps
Here are steps patients (and their GPs) can use:
- Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, especially persistent bleeding or changes in bowel habits — ask for investigation.
- Ask for referral. If symptoms persist, talk to your GP about a colonoscopy or further testing.
- Don’t rely on age alone. Just because someone is under 50 doesn’t mean they are risk-free.
- Raise awareness. Younger people are increasingly affected — recognising this helps change the mindset.
- Support networks: Younger patients may benefit from networks tailored to their age group and concerns.
The Message: Bowel cancer is not just an older person’s disease. Younger Australians are increasingly affected and need to be aware of the warning signs, advocate for themselves, and seek timely investigation. Early action can improve outcomes significantly.