Chadwick Boseman’s death from colon cancer at such a young age has prompted an increase in awareness of the condition and the understanding that this is not just an older person’s disease.

A recent study published in Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention has found the incidence of bowel cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer has increased up to 9% in people under 50 from the 1990’s until now. Obesity and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours such as an increased intake of highly processed foods and meat have been associated with an increased risk.

Home testing kits are available from chemists and if you have a family history of bowel cancer or are experiencing symptoms such as rectal bleeding when you go to the toilet, it is important to be assessed by your GP. Read more…