Public Health Scotland reports a record rise in bowel cancer among people under 50, with almost 290 new cases in 2024 and a 38% increase over the past decade. Younger women have been disproportionately affected (56% increase versus 24% in younger men). The Scottish Government has asked the UK National Screening Committee to consider lowering the screening age to 45 while experts investigate causes and emphasise prevention through healthier weight, less alcohol and more fibre.
Record Rise In Bowel Cancer Among Under-50s In Scotland — Younger Women Most Affected
Anona Gauld had just turned 40 when she was diagnosed with cancer [BBC]
New figures show the number of people under 50 diagnosed with bowel cancer in Scotland reached a record high in 2024, with almost 290 new cases. Public Health Scotland (PHS) reports a sharp increase in incidence among younger adults over the past decade, with particularly large rises in younger women.
Key Figures And Trends
PHS data indicate a 38% rise in bowel cancer incidence among people aged under 50 over the last ten years. The increase is steeper for younger women (up 56%) than for younger men (up 24%). Across all ages, there were 4,275 bowel cancer diagnoses in Scotland in 2024, a small decrease from 4,395 in 2023.
Case Study: Anona Gauld
Anona Gauld, from Stonehaven, is one of a growing number of women under 50 diagnosed with colorectal cancer. After unexplained shoulder pain that worsened when she drank alcohol, and several visits to her GP, she was diagnosed in August 2023 with stage 4 bowel cancer that had spread to her liver.
Anona Gauld was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer [BBC]
"It was a big shock. I was young, I was healthy. You don't think it's going to happen to you," Gauld said.
Doctors discovered a 13cm secondary tumour on her liver that originated in the bowel. She has undergone chemotherapy, immunotherapy and surgery on both liver and bowel. After a recurrence in her liver, she has resumed treatment and says she is focused on living her life.
Screening And Policy Review
Screening in Scotland is currently offered every two years to people aged 50–74. The Scottish Government has asked the UK National Screening Committee to consider lowering the screening start age to 45 to better reach younger patients at risk.
Symptoms To Watch For
NHS Inform lists common warning signs of bowel cancer. See your GP if you notice:
Anona has three children aged between 15 and 21 [BBC]
- Blood in your poo (stools) or bleeding from your bottom
- A recent change in your poo — looser stools or needing to poo more often
- New, persistent abdominal (tummy) pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling more pale and tired than usual
Causes, Prevention And Expert View
PHS says no single cause has been identified for the rise among under-50s and that multiple possible explanations are under investigation. Research suggests that up to six in 10 colorectal cancers could be prevented by addressing established risk factors: reducing excess body weight, cutting back on red and processed meat, increasing dietary fibre and limiting alcohol intake.
Wider Cancer Trends
Bowel cancer remains one of Scotland's most common cancers alongside prostate, breast and lung cancers; together these four account for more than half (55%) of all diagnoses. In 2024, prostate cancer diagnoses rose (record high for men) and malignant melanoma increased notably, while several other cancer rates — including lung and bladder cancers — declined.
What To Do: If you are concerned about symptoms or family history, contact your GP. Early assessment and investigation can improve outcomes.
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