London scientists investigating 'alarming rise' in a type of cancer affecting under-50s
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London scientists are investigating an 'alarming rise' in a type of cancer that mainly affects under-50s by teaming up with medical experts around the world.
Cases of bowel cancer appear to increase with each new generation and factors such as obesity and diet could add to the risk, as well as environmental and social factors.
A team at King’s College London is working alongside nine other institutions around the world to look at how the cancer develops in its early stages.
Samples will be analysed from diverse populations and it's hoped new emphasis can be placed on preventing cancer developing.
Professor Tim Spector, Director of TwinsUK at King’s College London and scientific co-founder at ZOE, said:
"We applied because colon cancer, particularly in younger adults, is a growing problem. Our range of multidisciplinary skills can play an important role, particularly with regards to nutrition and the gut microbiome.
"People with rare and early cancers don’t get as much research attention, so this is a key opportunity to better understand the risk factors and how to improve prevention."
What are the symptoms of bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer)?
changes in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for you
needing to poo more or less often than usual for you
blood in your poo, which may look red or black
bleeding from your bottom
often feeling like you need to poo, even if you've just been to the toilet
tummy pain
a lump in your tummy
bloating
losing weight without trying
feeling very tired for no reason
[Source: NHS]
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