Never too young- Rise in bowel cancer in young people

by Dr Jane Gilbert

Never too young- Rise in bowel cancer in young people

We’re from a family with famously dodgy bowels, on all sides and at all ages there are people with colitis, Crohn’s, polyps, irritable bowels, sluggish bowels, overactive guts and everything in between. Even so, my Dad’s diagnosis with colorectal cancer last year came as a shock. As an extraordinarily active and healthy man in his eighties he seemed invincible. But the truth is, around 44,100 people develop bowel cancer  in the UK every year, that's around 120 every day and worryingly the disease is increasingly affecting younger adults.

Rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults

Colorectal cancer mortality rates in the UK are predicted to rise by a third this year in the under-50s. But it’s not just a British problem, across the world more younger adults are being diagnosed with cancer. The number of under-50s diagnosed with the disease has increased by just under 80% in thirty years. That’s why Bowel Cancer UK launched their ‘Never too Young Campaign’ to highlight that more than 2,600 younger people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK every year and too often their diagnosis is delayed.

These stats, together with my Dad’s diagnosis made me think about trying to reduce my risk of developing bowel cancer- is there anything we can do to protect ourselves? 

How can you protect against bowel cancer?

You can’t change your genetic heritage when it comes to cancer risk- but Cancer Research UK estimates that more than half of bowel cancer cases in the UK (54%) are preventable: So how can you help reduce your risk and protect your bowel?

Fill up on fibre

Staggeringly, more than a quarter of bowel cancer cases (28%) are caused by eating too little fibre. Try and add fibre to your diet through fruit, veg, pulses and plenty of wholegrains. Regular bowel movements reduce the duration of exposure of the intestinal lining to potential carcinogens, which may decrease the risk of bowel cancer development.

ATTENTION TMI WARNING: this was the thing that stood out to me. My idea of bowel regularity was going twice a week! It’s this risk factor that inspired me to develop Nixi with my brother Justin. Nixi contains psyllium a soluble fibre that helps regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. It can help if, like me, you’re struggling to get the daily fibre you need. 

Cut out processed meat

Around 13% of bowel cancers are linked to eating processed meat. Either cut down or cut out bacon, sausages and charcuterie to protect your bowel.

Get to a healthy weight

Around 11% of bowel cancers are caused by obesity. If you’re overweight, try and shed some pounds to reach a healthy BMI.

Avoid alcohol

Some 6% of colorectal cancers are linked to alcohol consumption, so cut back on booze and sip some water instead to stay healthy and hydrated.

Live an active life

About 5% of colorectal cancers are caused by too little physical activity. You don’t have to take to the gym, try walking, dancing, swimming or taking the stairs instead of the lift.

Nourish your beneficial gut bacteria

Inulin is a prebiotic fibre that supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome is associated with a reduced risk of inflammation and improved gut health, which may lower the risk of bowel cancer development.

Strengthen gut barrier function

Fermented foods like kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, live yoghurt and probiotic supplements can all contribute to a healthy gut barrier function by enhancing the integrity of the intestinal lining. A strong gut barrier helps prevent the entry of harmful substances into the bloodstream, reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of bowel cancer.

Reduce inflammation

Spirulina and many fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are known contributors to the development of various cancers, including bowel cancer. Choose a healthy balanced diet with a rainbow assortment of fresh fruit and veggies and consider a green shot of spirulina to  help protect against bowel cancer.

 

Every little helps when it comes to cancer protection. Nixi contains fibre, prebiotics, probiotics and antioxidant greens, all active ingredients which can help improve your gut health. But remember that dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet or medical advice. See your GP for personal recommendations on cancer prevention strategies, including diet, lifestyle modifications, and screening for bowel cancer.

 

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