Colon Cancer, Food Access, and the Critical Role of Early Detection
Recent discussion surrounding rising colon cancer rates in young people, spurred by Devi Sridhar’s article on October 1st, highlights the complex interplay between diet, genetics, and access to healthcare. While ultra-processed foods are increasingly implicated as a critically important risk factor, a holistic approach must acknowledge individual circumstances and prioritize early diagnosis.
Sian Phillips, diagnosed with colon cancer at age 43 in February of this year, shared her experience demonstrating that while ultra-processed foods may be a concern for many, genetic predispositions also play a crucial role. Phillips’ cancer was linked to a genetic deficiency, for which she successfully received immunotherapy treatment alongside surgery, resulting in a full recovery. Her story powerfully underscores the importance of advancements in immunotherapy and the high standard of care available at institutions like University College Hospital.
However, Phillips’ case also highlights a critical issue: delayed diagnosis. Despite experiencing iron deficiency - a potential sign of colorectal cancer – it took nearly 18 months of persistent advocacy to receive a diagnosis. Phillips urges anyone experiencing fatigue and/or breathlessness to request an iron test instantly, and if iron deficient, to specifically request a stool test, notably women and younger individuals. “If you are diagnosed early enough, your chances of a full recovery are very high,” she emphasizes.
Beyond individual risk factors and treatment, the broader context of food affordability must be addressed. Sridhar’s comparison of ultra-processed foods to tobacco overlooks a key difference: the necessity of eating. With UK food prices having risen 37% between January 2020 and July 2025, ultra-processed foods often represent the only affordable option for many families.The recent ban on multi-buy food offers is likely to exacerbate this issue.
Aisling Spain of Belfast points to the moral paradox of encouraging healthier eating while simultaneously increasing food costs, effectively imposing a “patronising tax on the least well off.” According to figures from the Trussell Trust, 14.1 million people in the UK faced food insecurity in 2024.Spain argues that a more effective and ethical approach focuses on lowering the cost of healthy foods, making nutritious choices accessible to everyone.
Ultimately, tackling the rise in colon cancer requires a multi-faceted strategy: continued research into risk factors, investment in early detection methods, advancements in treatment like immunotherapy, and – crucially – policies that ensure affordable access to healthy food for all.
