Tracy
“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts – keep pushing until you get answers.”
The Never Too Young report was formally launched at Parliament in February 2026. Read the media release →
You're never too young
Anyone can get bowel cancer – at any age.
Every day in Aotearoa, nine people are diagnosed with bowel cancer – and three will lose their lives to it. It's New Zealand's second deadliest cancer, and it doesn't just affect older adults. Each year, around 350 people under 50 are diagnosed with early-onset bowel cancer.
The good news is that when it's found early, up to 90% of cases are curable – which is why awareness and early action are so important.
If something doesn't feel right, don't wait. Talk to your GP – you're never too young to get checked.
Never Too Young Report
More than 400 New Zealanders diagnosed under 50 shared their experiences to help drive change. Their stories reveal missed symptoms, delayed diagnoses, and the urgent need for earlier screening.
Check your symptoms
Rates are rising fastest in people under 50, yet many are diagnosed too late. If you notice symptoms, see your GP. If you feel unheard, seek a second opinion.
Help us advocate to lower the screening age
Every year of delay means more New Zealanders are diagnosed too late. It's time to act – lower the bowel screening age to 45 and save lives.
Help us spread the word
Start conversations that save lives. Engage with and share our posts, and talk to friends and whānau about the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer.
You're never too young to be diagnosed with bowel cancer.
Real people. Real stories.
Every year, hundreds of New Zealanders under 50 are diagnosed with bowel cancer – each with their own story to tell.
Meet our Never Too Young ambassadors: five incredible people who've shared their journeys to help raise awareness, break stigma, and inspire others to take action.
You're never too young to be diagnosed with bowel cancer.
If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and talk to your GP or healthcare professional. And if you've recently been diagnosed, are in treatment, or adjusting to life afterwards – we're here for you.
Just diagnosed?
A bowel cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Here's what to expect next, and how to find information, guidance, and support along the way.
We're here for you
If you've been diagnosed young, support is available. Connect with our nurse helpline, online groups, financial assistance, and free physio and counselling services.
Is it genetic?
Bowel cancer isn't always hereditary – but in some families, genetics can increase risk. Find out what to look for and when to get tested.
How can I reduce my risk?
While no cancer is completely preventable, you can lower your risk of bowel cancer through small, healthy changes to your diet, lifestyle, and routine screening.
Recent Survey Statistics
0%
of patients and survivor respondents were not aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer before they were diagnosed.
0%
of patients waited more than 5 months before seeing a doctor, thinking the symptoms would go away.
0%
of young patients reported experiencing anxiety and/or depression during or after treatment.
0%
of patients were working or studying full-time, and 73% had school-age children when diagnosed.
0%
of young patients saw 2 or more doctors before a referral was sent for further investigation.
0%
of young patients with a stoma felt it affected their intimate relationships.
0%
of young patients expressed a fear of recurrence, and 70% suffered emotional exhaustion.
0%
of young patients were diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 bowel cancer.
0%
of young patients had 2 or more symptoms before being diagnosed.
What are we calling for?
Bowel Cancer New Zealand is calling for urgent action to improve early detection, diagnosis, and care for younger New Zealanders.
We're asking for:
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Greater awareness – so everyone, including health professionals, recognises that bowel cancer can affect people under 50 and knows the symptoms to watch for - Faster testing and diagnosis – younger people with symptoms should be referred for investigation without unnecessary delay
- Age-appropriate, culturally responsive care – treatment and support that reflect the unique needs of younger patients and their whānau
- Better access to screening and testing – including increased colonoscopy capacity and lowering the national screening age from 58 to 45
Together, we can make earlier diagnosis the norm – not the exception.
Personal stories: too many, too young.
Read the stories of some of the many Kiwis whose lives have been affected by bowel cancer. No matter what their age, we believe they were all too young.
#nevertooyoung #getchecked #beatbowelcancer
