Colorectal (bowel) cancer incidence rates are increasing in young adults in 27 countries (out of 50) worldwide, a global study lead by the US has found.

Early-onset colorectal cancer (25-49 years) is also rising more sharply in England than in many other countries, for the first time ever highlights Cancer Research UK.
The study looked at incidence trends in young versus older adults using ‘high-quality population based cancer registry data until 2017’ from 50 countries.
The findings reveal ‘the need for innovative tools to prevent and control cancers linked to dietary habits, physical inactivity, and excess body weight,’ said lead author Dr. Hyuna Sung. ‘Ongoing efforts are essential to identify the additional factors behind these trends and to develop effective prevention strategies tailored to younger generations and local resources worldwide.’
Chief executive of Cancer Research UK Michelle Mitchell added: ‘While it’s important to note that rates in younger adults are still very low compared to people over 50, we need to understand what’s causing this trend in younger people’.
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