Australia is witnessing a sharp rise in early-onset bowel cancer, particularly among people under 50, despite overall declines in the disease.
Experts remain baffled by the increase, warning of a silent surge in one of the world’s most aggressive cancers affecting younger Australians.
Professor Mark Jenkins from the University of Melbourne revealed that over the past three decades, more than 28,000 Australians under 50 have been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
The trend has resulted in an estimated 4,300 additional cases of early-onset bowel cancer in Australia alone.
Bowel cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms and can progress rapidly if not detected early.
Brisbane mother Laura Corfield was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer while 22 weeks pregnant, after months of being told her symptoms were pregnancy-related.
Theories on the cause of rising cases include increasing obesity, sedentary lifestyles, declining use of aspirin, and potential exposure to microplastics.
Dr Michelle Blewitt pointed to microplastics in seafood as a possible contributor, although this theory does not fully explain the trend.
Professor Jenkins believes that changes in the gut microbiome may be the most plausible explanation so far.
Health officials stress early detection as the best defense, urging Australians aged 45–49 to participate in national screening programs and younger individuals with a family history to consult their doctors.
Symptoms to watch for include persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blood in the stool.
Although the exact cause remains unknown, experts agree that a healthy lifestyle remains vital in reducing cancer risk.
