Highlighting Early-Onset Bowel Cancer Concerns
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month starts on 1st June, marking a significant effort by Bowel Cancer Australia to raise awareness about the country’s second deadliest cancer. This annual campaign is vital for educating the public on the importance of early detection and prevention.
Celebrating 25 years of impact, Bowel Cancer Australia has consistently championed the needs of those affected by bowel cancer. The organisation focuses on early-onset cases, which are diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50. Each year, 1,884 Australians under 50 receive a diagnosis, accounting for 12.6% of all cases. Bowel cancer is the deadliest cancer for people aged 25-54.
Australia holds the unfortunate record for the highest rates of early-onset bowel cancer globally. The risk of being diagnosed before the age of 40 has more than doubled since the year 2000. Research indicates that these rates could double every 20 years if current trends persist.
Efforts to Raise Awareness and Address Symptoms
Annually, 14,904 Australians are diagnosed with bowel cancer. Despite its severity, the condition is almost 99% treatable if detected in its earliest stages. Currently, over 163,000 Australians are living with or beyond bowel cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection.
Symptoms of bowel cancer can include blood in stools, noticeable changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, and lumps in the abdomen. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to successful treatment.
Bowel Cancer Australia’s collaboration with Kleenex aims to increase symptom awareness by featuring a ‘check your poo’ reminder on Kleenex packs. This initiative encourages Australians to be proactive about their bowel health. Across the country, these efforts are supported by a dedicated poocheck.com.au support hub.
In addition to its awareness campaigns, Bowel Cancer Australia advocates for policy changes through initiatives like #Never2Young and Call on Canberra, striving to lower the screening age and improve early detection rates. Since 2014, these initiatives have made significant strides in raising awareness and advocating for early-onset bowel cancer.
For further information regarding the campaign, Stephanie Bansemer-Brown, Marketing and Publicity Manager for Bowel Cancer Australia, can be contacted at 0412 915 797.
Last updated: 1 June 2026, 6:25 am
