A new study published in the New Zealand Medical Journal has found that younger people with bowel cancer in New Zealand are experiencing significant delays in diagnosis, often waiting months for confirmation. The research, described as the largest nationwide study of its kind, highlights frequent misdiagnosis and inadequate information and support for patients.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Otago, surveyed 402 patients aged under 50 who were diagnosed with bowel cancer between 2017 and 2022. It found that the median time from first symptom to diagnosis was 162 days, with some patients waiting over a year. Many were initially misdiagnosed with conditions such as haemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome.
Dr. Susan Parry, a co-author of the study, stated that younger patients often do not fit the typical profile for bowel cancer, leading to delays. The study also revealed that patients frequently reported feeling dismissed by healthcare professionals and lacked access to tailored support services.
Bowel Cancer New Zealand has called for increased awareness among both the public and healthcare providers about the rising incidence of bowel cancer in younger adults. The organization emphasizes the need for clearer guidelines for GPs to consider bowel cancer in younger patients presenting with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.
