Media Coverage: GP Raises Concern Over Rising Bowel Cancer Cases in Younger Adults

A growing number of bowel cancer diagnoses in younger adults is prompting concern among medical professionals, as patients in their 20s and 30s report delayed or overlooked symptoms before diagnosis.

One such case is Bronwyn Tagg from Cambridgeshire, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer at just 26 after experiencing abdominal pain, fatigue and changes in bowel habits. Her case reflects a wider trend of younger patients being diagnosed at later stages after symptoms are initially attributed to less serious conditions.

While bowel cancer remains more common in older adults, experts say the pattern of diagnoses is shifting.

Dr Asiya Maula, private GP at The Health Suite, said she is seeing a noticeable rise in referrals for younger patients.

“I’m referring under-50s for cancer investigations far more regularly than I ever used to, Ten or 20 years ago this was uncommon. Now, it’s something I’m seeing week in, week out.”

Rising awareness of symptoms in younger adults

Medical professionals say younger patients often dismiss early warning signs such as abdominal pain, fatigue or rectal bleeding, assuming they are caused by more common issues like haemorrhoids, diet or stress.

This can sometimes delay investigation and diagnosis, particularly when symptoms are intermittent or easily explained away.

Encouraging earlier medical checks

Dr Maula and other clinicians are encouraging patients to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or change over time, regardless of age.

She emphasises that while bowel cancer is less likely in younger people, it is not impossible — and early investigation can make a significant difference to outcomes.

Health experts continue to stress the importance of persistence when symptoms do not resolve, alongside awareness of key warning signs such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained pain, and rectal bleeding.

Read the complete article in The GB News.