** please can you go ahead and sign https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/725909*

We, the undersigned, call on the Uk Government and NHS to:
1. Lower the national bowel cancer screening age from 50 to 30, and
2. Ensure that patients presenting with one or more recognised symptoms of bowel cancer are thoroughly investigated, regardless of their age.

Background and Rationale:

This petition is submitted in memory of Ms. Cheryl Reid, who tragically passed away in February 2025 at the age of 32 from stage 4 bowel cancer. Cheryl had sought medical attention for severe and ongoing symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting, and liver dysfunction. Despite this, her concerns were repeatedly dismissed due to her age and clinical indications such as bloods were not acted on appropriately at time of results. A CT scan was only performed in October 2024—months after she first presented with symptoms—by which point the cancer had spread to her liver and was terminal.

Cheryl’s case is not unique. Bowel cancer among young adults is increasing at an alarming rate, yet current guidelines and attitudes often prevent early detection in this age group. Symptoms of bowel cancer—such as persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, or changes in bowel habits—should never be dismissed based on age alone.

Had Cheryl received a timely scan or investigation during her July 2024 hospital admission, her cancer may have been detected at an earlier stage. The system failed her, and it must change to prevent further tragedies.

We are asking for:
• The lowering of the bowel cancer screening age to 30 in the UK, reflecting current evidence about early-onset colorectal cancer.
• A revised diagnostic protocol that ensures patients of any age with symptoms suggestive of bowel cancer are offered appropriate scans and tests without age-based bias.
• Greater education and awareness for clinicians on the rising rates of bowel cancer in people under 50.

Why This Matters:

Early diagnosis saves lives. Screening and timely investigations can detect cancer before it spreads and becomes untreatable. No one should be told they are “too young” for cancer while it is silently advancing through their body. Cheryl’s story must not be repeated.

Let Cheryl’s legacy be one of change. Please sign this petition and support vital reforms that could save countless lives.