A growing number of younger Australians are being diagnosed with bowel cancer, with experts warning that early warning signs are often being missed.

Health professionals say symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, ongoing abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss and extreme fatigue should not be ignored, even among younger people.

Early-onset bowel cancer, which affects people under the age of 50, is becoming an increasing health concern in Australia. Researchers say delayed diagnosis can lead to more advanced disease by the time cancer is detected.

Australia’s bowel cancer screening program has also expanded, allowing people aged 45 to 49 to access free screening kits to help detect the disease earlier.

Doctors are urging Australians not to dismiss unusual symptoms and to seek medical advice early, saying early detection can save lives.