Why younger adults are mistaking bowel cancer symptoms for IBS or stress

Did you know that bowel cancer cases are increasing among Millennials and Gen Z in the UK? 

Recent insights show that in the UK, rates of early-onset bowel cancer among Millennials and Gen Z are rising faster than almost anywhere else. Symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and changes in bowel habits are often mistaken for IBS or stress-related digestive issues. Early recognition and testing make a significant difference in outcomes. Doctify helps patients find verified gastroenterologists and general surgeons who can provide accurate assessment and early detection.

Understanding Bowel (Colorectal) Cancer

In a simple explanation, bowel cancer is cancer of the colon and/or rectum. While most cases occur in older adults, younger adults are increasingly affected. Early detection saves lives, but diagnosis is often delayed due to symptom overlap with milder conditions.

Colorectal cancer is the umbrella term for cancers that begin anywhere in the large intestine. When we say colon cancer, we’re referring to tumours found in the main part of the bowel, whereas rectal cancer develops in the final portion—about the last 10 to 15 centimetres—just before the anus. While they share many similarities, rectal cancers can require different surgical techniques and follow-up plans.

– Dr Angad Dhillon

Why younger adults are at risk

Younger adults are at risk due to these factors:

• Lifestyle factors: sedentary habits, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption
• Diet: low-fibre, high red/processed meat, ultra-processed foods.
• Rising rates of obesity and stress contribute to gut inflammation.
• Family history or genetic predispositions (e.g. Lynch syndrome).
• Lack of awareness: many young people assume they’re “too young” for cancer.

The Overlap: IBS vs Bowel Cancer Symptoms

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) causes bloating, abdominal discomfort, and irregular bowel habits — often worsened by stress or diet. Meanwhile, bowel cancer can show similar symptoms but with subtle differences. Most digestive symptoms are not cancer, but persistent issues deserve medical review.
Here are some key distinctions patients should note:

• Persistent blood in stool or dark, tarry stools.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
• A change in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks.
• Abdominal pain that doesn’t improve after bowel movement.

Why misdiagnosis happens

Often, misdiagnosis happens since GPs see in younger adults IBS as the first possibility due to age and lifestyle, and because of that are less likely to be referred for colonoscopy early. Also, patients may delay seeking care, assuming symptoms are “just stress”. Lastly, the social stigma or embarrassment about bowel symptoms can also cause hesitation.

Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

These signs warrant a prompt check-up with a GP or gastroenterologist:

• Blood in stool (bright red or dark).
• Unexplained tiredness or anaemia.
• Persistent bloating or pain that interferes with daily life.
• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely.
• Unexplained changes in weight or appetite.

How bowel cancer is diagnosed

Bowel cancer is diagnosed as follows. Initially a GP consultation with symptom review and stool test (FIT test). Followed by a colonoscopy, the gold standard for identifying growths or abnormalities. Afterwards, a CT scan or MRI to assess spread or staging if cancer is suspected. These tests are quick, minimally invasive, and often life-saving when done early.

Treatment Options

The treatment options are many, but here are the most common. The primary treatment is surgery for removal of affected bowel segments. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be required depending on stage and spread. Also, targeted therapies, newer treatments that personalise care. Early-stage bowel cancer has a very high survival rate.

How to protect your gut health

• Eat a high-fibre diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Limit red and processed meats.
• Stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake.
• Attend screenings and follow up on unusual digestive changes.

These days we consume a lot of processed food, fast food, and food in packages, which have added chemicals and preservatives. All these make your risk of bowel cancer higher. It will be advisable to eat more fresh foods, with less chemicals and salt, which improves our survival and chances of not developing bowel cancer.

– Dr. Yanez Peerbaccus

When to See a Specialist

Please consult a specialist if you have any of the following:

• Ongoing digestive symptoms for more than a few weeks.
• Notice blood in your stool or experience unexplained fatigue or weight loss.

Doctify allows you to connect with trusted gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons for timely evaluation and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Around 44,100 people in the UK are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year, making it the country’s fourth-most common cancer. While IBS and stress are common causes of gut discomfort, bowel cancer in younger adults is rising and shouldn’t be overlooked. Awareness and early testing can save lives. We invite you to take persistent digestive symptoms seriously and book an appointment with a verified gastroenterologist or general surgeon on Doctify for professional advice and screening.

Feel free to consult a general surgeon through Doctify for personalised advice whenever you want, we will be happy to help you! Find the best General surgeons in the United Kingdom or search for the best specialists globally:

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Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 04/11/2025