Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is the fourth most common cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Although bowel cancer is typically diagnosed in people over the age of 50, recent studies have shown that it is becoming increasingly common in young adults.

Researchers have found that obesity in adolescence can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer later in life.

What is bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It usually starts as a small growth called a polyp, which over time can develop into cancer. Symptoms of bowel cancer can include:.

Blood in the stool
Diarrhea or constipation that doesn’t go away
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue

It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by a variety of conditions, and having them does not necessarily mean that you have bowel cancer.

However, it is important to see a doctor if you experience these symptoms, particularly if they are persistent.

The link between obesity and bowel cancer

Obesity is a major risk factor for a number of different types of cancer, including bowel cancer. The World Cancer Research Fund estimates that around 12% of bowel cancer cases in the UK are linked to being overweight or obese.

However, recent research has shown that the link between obesity and bowel cancer might be even stronger in young people.

A study published in the journal Gut in 2019 found that people who were obese at the age of 18 were more likely to develop bowel cancer later in life than those who were not obese.

The study looked at data from over 240,000 people in the UK, and found that those who were obese at 18 had almost double the risk of developing bowel cancer by the age of 48 than those who were a healthy weight at 18.

Why does obesity increase the risk of bowel cancer?

The exact reasons why obesity increases the risk of bowel cancer are not fully understood. However, there are several theories:.

Obesity can cause chronic low-level inflammation in the body, which can damage cells and increase the risk of cancer.
Obesity can increase insulin resistance and the production of insulin-like growth factors, which can stimulate cell growth and increase the risk of cancer.
Obesity can alter the levels of certain hormones in the body, which can affect cell growth and increase the risk of cancer.

Preventing bowel cancer

Although the risk of developing bowel cancer is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics and age, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Eat a diet that is high in fiber and low in red and processed meat
Get regular exercise
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit alcohol consumption
Avoid smoking

It is also important to attend regular screening appointments for bowel cancer. In the UK, people over the age of 60 are offered a test called a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) every two years to check for signs of bowel cancer.

If you are younger than 60 but have a family history of bowel cancer, you may be offered screening at an earlier age.

Conclusion

Bowel cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening.

Although the risk of developing bowel cancer is influenced by a variety of factors, recent research has shown that obesity in adolescence can increase the risk of developing the disease later in life. Taking steps to maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly can help reduce your risk of bowel cancer.