In May 2023, my beautiful sister, Lucie, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Despite numerous visits to her local GP and repeated assurances from medical professionals that cancer was unlikely due to her young age, the reality was tragically different. Lucie was only 38 when she was taken to the hospital by our parents, overwhelmed by unbearable pain, where scans revealed a tumour in her colon and secondary metastases in her liver. Six months later, after enduring unsuccessful chemotherapy and radiotherapy, we lost her.

Lucie's story is not isolated. It highlights a critical flaw in our current healthcare system: the age threshold for bowel cancer screening in the UK remains too high. The NHS currently begins routine bowel cancer screening at age 50, although recent decisions have been made to gradually lower it to 45. However, this is still not sufficient.

Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger individuals. According to Cancer Research UK, cases in people under 50 have risen by nearly 50% over the last decade. Other countries, such as the United States, have already taken the crucial step of starting screenings at age 45 nationwide, recognising the shifting demographics of this cancer. The UK must prioritise preventive healthcare and align with these international standards to protect our population more effectively.

By lowering the screening age to 40 or even 35, many lives could be saved. Early detection through screening is a proven method of combating colorectal cancer, potentially reducing mortality rates significantly. Individuals like Lucie, who fall outside the current screening guidelines, would have a fighting chance against this devastating disease.

We call upon the UK government and Public Health England to urgently review and amend the bowel cancer screening programme. This essential change requires immediate attention and action — it could mean the difference between life and death for so many.

Please join me in this effort to ensure that other families do not endure the same heartbreak. By signing this petition, you can help us advocate for a more inclusive and life-saving screening programme. Together, we can push for the change that is so desperately needed. Sign the petition now and be a part of this vital movement.