Raising Awareness Leads to Increased Bowel Cancer Diagnoses
Bowel cancer has now become the third most common cancer in the UK, surpassing lung cancer for the first time since records began in 1995, according to NHS statistics. The health service attributes this surge to raised awareness, thanks to the efforts of campaigners like the late Sun writer Dame Deborah James.
Concerns Over Rising Rates Due to Diet and Lifestyle Factors
While increased awareness has played a role in the rise of bowel cancer diagnoses, experts also caution that rates may be increasing due to poor diets and unhealthy lifestyles. Lynn Dunne, the head of Bowel Research UK charity, expressed concern over the growing number of people under the age of 60 being diagnosed with bowel cancer, pointing to factors such as poor diet, obesity, and smoking as potential contributors.
Bowel Cancer Cases Outpacing Overall Cancer Rates
NHS figures reveal that bowel cancer cases are rising at a faster rate compared to cancer overall. Between 2019 and 2021, there was a 10.4% increase in bowel cancer cases, while total cancer cases increased by just 1%. This trend highlights the need for continued efforts to raise awareness and promote early detection.
Increase in Testing and Screening
High-profile cases like Dame Deborah James, who passed away at the age of 40 in June 2021, have prompted record numbers of people to get tested for bowel disease. Campaigns such as Trending In The News's "No Time 2 Lose" campaign have encouraged individuals to be proactive about their health. As a result, NHS screening is being extended to younger age groups, and by 2025, at-home sample tests will be available for all individuals aged 50 to 74.
Gratitude for Campaigners
NHS England cancer professor Peter Johnson expressed gratitude for campaigners like Deborah James, acknowledging their tireless efforts to raise the profile of bowel cancer and emphasize the importance of early detection. Their advocacy has undoubtedly saved lives.
