June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in New Zealand, a time to raise awareness about symptoms, early detection and the importance of acting when something changes. In this article, Dr Marius Van Rijnsoever, gastroenterologist, busts common myths about a disease that affects thousands of Kiwis each year.

Bowel cancer is often thought of as a disease that only affects older people, but that perception is increasingly out of date. In New Zealand, bowel cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50. More than 3,000 New Zealanders are diagnosed each year, including more than 350 people under the age of 50. That means about one in 10 cases occurs in younger adults. The problem is that awareness in this age group remains low. Symptoms are often overlooked, and many younger patients are fit, active and otherwise well.

Myth: “I’m too young to worry about bowel cancer.”
Fact: Bowel cancer can affect adults at any age. While the risk increases as we get older, younger people are not immune. According to Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s 'Never Too Young' report, many younger patients saw more than one doctor before being referred for further investigation. This highlights how easily symptoms can be dismissed when someone does not fit the traditional picture of a bowel cancer patient.

Myth: “If it was serious, I would feel very unwell.”
Fact: Bowel cancer can develop silently, and symptoms may be mild or intermittent. In fact, 65% of young patients were diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 bowel cancer. Warning signs can include a persistent change in bowel habit, bleeding from the bottom, abdominal discomfort, unexplained fatigue, iron deficiency anaemia or unexplained weight loss. These symptoms can have many causes, but if they persist, they should not be ignored.

Myth: “It’s probably nothing, it will go away.”
Fact: Delays in seeking help are common, particularly among younger adults. Many people wait months before speaking to a doctor, hoping symptoms will settle. The earlier bowel cancer is found, the more treatable it is. In some cases, early investigation can also prevent cancer by finding and removing pre-cancerous polyps.

Why early investigation matters
Colonoscopy plays an important role in both the diagnosis and prevention of bowel cancer. It allows a specialist to examine the lining of the bowel using a thin, flexible camera. During the procedure, pre-cancerous polyps can often be removed before they develop into cancer. For many patients, colonoscopy also provides reassurance and clarity when symptoms are ongoing.

Changing the conversation
One of the biggest barriers remains embarrassment. Many people feel uncomfortable talking about bowel habits, bleeding or changes in the toilet. But bowel cancer is not prevented by avoiding the conversation. It is prevented through awareness, early action and timely investigation.

A message for all ages
Bowel cancer is not just an older person’s disease. Knowing what is normal for your body and acting when something changes is important at any age. If bowel symptoms persist, please see your GP. If you feel your concerns have not been heard, it is reasonable to seek a second opinion. You can self-refer for a colonoscopy at Waitematā Endoscopy, where we can schedule most procedures such as colonoscopy and gastroscopy appointments within seven working days of referral, subject to clinical suitability and availability.

Dr Marius Van Rijnsoever
Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist
Waitematā Endoscopy