What is the 'Boomers Project' at ICR London?

The 'Boomers Project' is a study comparing 1950s bowel cancer samples with modern ones to understand why early-onset cases are increasing.

Why are bowel cancer diagnoses increasing in young people?

Researchers suspect changes in diet, lifestyle, and environmental exposures over decades, known as the 'exposome,' are driving the rise in young-onset bowel cancer.

How can I reduce my risk of bowel cancer?

Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and consulting a GP for any persistent bowel symptoms can help reduce your risk.

Home / Health / UK Study: Bowel Cancer Rise Linked to Past Exposures

UK Study: Bowel Cancer Rise Linked to Past Exposures

7 Jan

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Summary

Bowel cancer is the UK's fourth most common cancer.
Early-onset bowel cancer diagnoses are sharply increasing.
1950s samples will be compared with modern cases.

UK Study: Bowel Cancer Rise Linked to Past Exposures

Bowel cancer remains a significant health concern in the UK, ranking as the fourth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. While screening has helped in older populations, a notable increase in diagnoses among younger individuals is occurring, with projections indicating a doubling of cases between 2010 and 2030. This trend has prompted researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London to initiate a groundbreaking study.

The "Boomers Project" involves a meticulous comparison of bowel cancer specimens dating back to the 1950s, preserved at St Marks Hospital, with contemporary cancer samples. The core hypothesis is that changes in the "exposome"—encompassing shifts in diet, lifestyle, and environmental exposures over the decades—are contributing to the alarming rise in early-onset bowel cancer. Scientists are investigating various theories, including dietary habits, microplastic exposure, and microbiome alterations.