This increase in the rate of colorectal cancer diagnosis among younger people, known as early-onset colorectal cancer, has sounded panic bells in Australia. Bowel Cancer Australia dispels a very important myth – that bowel cancer is somehow an “old person’s disease.” This misunderstanding may contribute to decreased awareness and early detection among younger people. As young as 29, Jordan Brunoli, a bass player for the Brisbane-based band Bugs, recently received a devastating diagnosis of incurable stage 4 colorectal cancer. His case exemplifies a troubling pattern: younger people are increasingly affected by this disease, with the risk of diagnosis before the age of 40 more than doubling since 2000.
The average age of a bowel cancer patient diagnosed is 69 years old, the Cancer Council states. Brunoli’s experience is a powerful reminder of why awareness and early intervention are so critical. Last year, the screening age was lowered from 50 to 45 as incidence rates among those under 50 are increasing.
Brunoli’s cancer has moved from his bowels to his liver and lymph nodes. Today, he’s undergoing his second cycle of chemotherapy and learning how to live with a stoma. The Brisbane music community has come together to support him ever since his diagnosis. In addition to taking their cause state-wide, they’re increasing their own fundraising efforts, including a planned “Saving a Bug’s Life” concert on October 4 at The Tivoli.
Symptoms to Watch For
Bowel Cancer Australia is calling on all Australians to be aware and act on the bowel cancer symptoms which may surprise you. Spokesperson Gary Diyora. The organization lists several key warning signs that should prompt immediate medical evaluation:
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- A recent, persistent change in bowel habit
- A change in the shape or appearance of stool
- Frequent gas pain or cramps
- Unexplained anaemia
- A feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation after using the toilet
- Pain or a lump in the anus or rectum
- Abdominal pain or swelling
Bowel Cancer Australia stresses, “If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms of bowel cancer for two weeks or more, you should make an appointment with your GP.” Well, this advice is critically important. Early detection can make all the difference, including between a stage 1 tumor and stage 4 metastatic disease in the case of many cancers.
The advocacy group further points out that milder cases in younger people can lead to longer diagnostic wait times. Or they travel for anywhere from three months to five years, seeing dozens of doctors before finally getting a correct diagnosis. “Jordan has been sent away from emergency and a GP repeatedly after first showing symptoms months ago,” stated Brunoli’s band.
Bowel Cancer Australia is responding to these shocking statistics. They’re laser focused on educating the public about the warning signs and urging people to get the care they deserve in a timely fashion.
Screening and Diagnosis
Free bowel cancer screening kits are provided to all Australians aged 45 to 74. If you’re 45 to 49, don’t miss out — order your screening kit today! If you’re between 50 and 74, we’ll send you a kit automatically every two years. This initiative is designed to promote early detection and prevent the high cost of more advanced cases.
There are different tests that can detect bowel cancer equally well. These can be performed using blood tests, immunochemical faecal occult blood tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, MRI scans, CT scans and PET scans to name a few. According to the Cancer Council, “The best test for bowel cancer is a colonoscopy, which examines the length of the large bowel.”
Jordan’s story is a highlight of the necessity of these screenings. “Not to be preachy, but if you have witnessed any blood in your stool, experienced weird abdominal pains, unexplained weight loss, or extended periods of fatigue — don’t be afraid to raise it with your GP and ask for an abdominal ultrasound,” Brunoli advised.
Community Support and Awareness Initiatives
The Brisbane music scene is supporting Brunoli as he fights this deadly illness. Local musicians are hosting their own community events such as the “Saving a Bug’s Life” concert. They’re currently crowdfunding money to cover his treatment costs. The day will feature audio of Brunoli’s fight with colorectal cancer. Additionally, it spotlights the agency’s focused work to call attention to the issue among younger demographics.
Foundations and players from local sports teams, including the NRL Broncos and AFL Lions are lending a hand. They’re in the thick of a fundraising campaign for Brunoli’s treatment. Their involvement is a testament to the rest of the community’s desire to come around one of their own and support her through this difficult time.
Bowel Cancer Australia will keep campaigning until awareness and early screening reach all age groups and demographics. The organization emphasizes that early intervention remains critical: “At any age, if your symptoms are unexplained and include — blood in your poo or rectal bleeding, a changed bowel habit, anaemia, abdominal pain, weight loss, or a lump in your abdomen or rectum — you should be referred by your GP for further investigation via colonoscopy within 30 days.”
