Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common cancers in the United States, with over 140,000 people diagnosed each year.
The exact age at which bowel cancer starts is difficult to determine because it can vary greatly from person to person. Generally, most cases of bowel cancer are seen in people over the age of 50, with the average age of diagnosis being around 66. However, cases in younger individuals are not unheard of, and the risk of developing the disease increases with age.
In individuals under the age of 50, the risk of developing bowel cancer is significantly lower than in older individuals, but it is still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. These include changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. It is important to note that these symptoms could be due to other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional.
In addition to age, there are other factors that can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer, such as smoking, being overweight, and a family history of the disease. It is important to be aware of these risk factors and to speak to a healthcare professional if there is any concern.
Overall, the exact age at which bowel cancer starts is difficult to determine, but it is generally more common in individuals over the age of 50. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, as well as other risk factors, and to speak to a healthcare professional if there is any concern.