Colorectal Cancer: A Year in Research

Colorectal or bowel cancer remains one of the most common cancers in the UK, but the past year has brought meaningful progress. From AI-powered screening tools to new insights into prevention and personalised treatment, research is reshaping how we detect and manage this disease. In this article, we review the most important colorectal cancer developments of the year and what they mean for earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Facts About Colorectal Cancer

• Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK¹.
• Around 44,000 people are diagnosed each year¹.
• It is the second leading cause of cancer death in the UK².
• More than 90 per cent of cases occur in people over 50, though rates in younger adults are rising¹.
• If detected at stage 1, the five-year survival exceeds 90 per cent³.
• At stage 4, survival drops significantly to around 10 per cent³.

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms and Risk Factors

Common Early Symptoms

In its early stages, colorectal cancer often causes few or very mild symptoms. These can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions. These may include⁴:

• Ongoing changes in bowel habits
• Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent tiredness or fatigue
• Rectal bleeding
• Blood in the stool

Because these signs can be subtle, regular colorectal cancer screening is vital for early detection.

Key Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your bowel cancer risk. While lifestyle plays a major role, age, genetics, and certain medical conditions are also important. Understanding your personal risk can help you have informed discussions with your GP.

Lifestyle^5–8:

• Eating too much red or processed meat, or too little fibre or calcium
• Being overweight or obese
• Low levels of physical activity
• Smoking
• Drinking too much alcohol

Age and genetics^7,9:

• Risk increases with age; around 40 per cent of cases occur in people over 75
• Having a close family member with bowel cancer can double your risk
• Certain inherited conditions, such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis or Lynch syndrome, raise risk significantly

Medical conditions⁷: 

• Long-term inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
• A previous history of bowel cancer
• Type 2 diabetes
• Some bacterial infections, such as H. pylori or E. coli, that produce colibactin

It’s important to remember that cancer risk isn’t all-or-nothing. Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you will get bowel cancer, just as people with few risk factors can still develop it.

In the UK, at-home bowel cancer screening is offered to people aged 50 to 74. This simple test can help detect early signs of cancer, sometimes before symptoms appear¹⁰. 

New Research on Colorectal Cancer and Survival

The past year has seen major advances in colorectal cancer research. Developments in artificial intelligence (AI), new diagnostic tools, and innovative treatment methods are transforming how the disease is detected, managed, and treated, offering renewed hope for improved survival outcomes.

AI-Assisted Colonoscopy Improves Polyp Detection

AI-assisted colonoscopies use AI to highlight potential polyps and abnormal growths, enabling healthcare professionals to decide whether removal or further investigation is required. This technology boosts efficiency, accuracy, and detection rates, improving patient outcomes while reducing costs.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence endorses several real-time AI technologies that highlight adenomas (pre-cancerous polyps) and other lesions for use in the UK. These are GI Genius, CAD EYE, ENDO-AID, EndoScreener, and MAGENTIQ-COLO¹¹. 

The UK COLO-DETECT trial tested the efficacy of GI Genius against standard colonoscopies in over 2000 patients across 10 NHS sites. The study found an 8 per cent increase in adenoma detection and faster diagnosis timelines. These promising results support a nationwide NHS rollout of similar technologies^12,13. 

Over the next decade, the NHS aims for UK-wide adoption of AI-assisted diagnostics across various cancers¹¹. 

Immunotherapy Expands for Specific Genetic Subtypes

Immunotherapy works by modulating the immune system to help it recognise and attack cancer cells¹⁴. 

Dostarlimab is an immunotherapy medication with potential as an alternative to surgery. After treatment, none of the 42 patients with advanced rectal cancer (that had not spread) showed any evidence of cancer upon Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), endoscopy, or clinical examination. Over a 2-year follow-up period, these patients did not require radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery, and had no serious side effects¹⁵. 

Research has also demonstrated the promise of personalised medicine, where treatments are tailored to a patient’s genetic profile. The landmark FIRE-3 trial showed that targeted use of cetuximab in those with a specific gene signature extended survival by around 4 months compared with standard treatment¹⁶. 

Improved FIT Testing Sensitivity

Faecal Immunochemical Testing (FIT) is used in the NHS bowel cancer screening service¹⁷.

Research has focused on improving this system to better detect hidden blood in stool. As a result, the at-home screening test is now more sensitive. This improvement will help detect more cases earlier, saving lives and potentially over £32 million a year in avoided treatment costs^18,19.

Liquid Biopsy Research Advances

Liquid biopsies are a non‑invasive way to detect early signs of cancer in the blood and to prompt further investigation²⁰. These are relatively new technologies, but the research is promising, and liquid biopsies could be used as a screening tool for bowel cancer in the future²¹. 

The UK government has invested around £2.4 million in developing an AI‑assisted blood test that, in early studies, has detected multiple cancers (including bowel cancer) with very high accuracy. This innovation could help speed up diagnosis, reduce costs, and save lives²². 

MRI Improves Rectal Cancer Treatment Planning

High-resolution MRI helps doctors stage rectal cancer more accurately and identify which treatment course is most appropriate. This could help avoid unnecessary pain or side effects associated with certain treatments²³. 

Recent studies have shown that AI-enhanced MRI can be more accurate at identifying early signs of cancer compared to traditional Computed Tomography (CT) scans, with MRIs being 12.2 per cent more sensitive, and 22.2 per cent more specific than CTs²⁴. 

MRIs can help ensure patients get diagnosed earlier, receive the appropriate treatment, and support more personalised treatment planning for the best patient outcomes. 

How Early Detection Is Changing the Future of Colorectal Cancer 

Early detection remains our most powerful tool against colorectal cancer. Screening colonoscopy continues to be the gold standard for prevention, allowing doctors to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

Much of the research discussed above focuses on early detection and has led to major advancements, including:

• Improvements to the NHS bowel cancer screening service²⁵. 
• AI‑assisted colonoscopies to improve adenoma detection rates¹³. 
• AI‑enhanced MRI²⁴ is helping to guide immunotherapy treatments¹⁵.

Early detection not only improves survival rates but also broadens treatment options and reduces the need for more aggressive therapies. 

What You Can Do to Make a Difference

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is more than a ribbon; it is an opportunity to act.

1. Ways to Get Involved

• Volunteer with organisations such as Bowel Cancer UK.
• Donate to trusted charities funding research and support services.
• Join or host a community awareness walk or workplace fundraiser.
• Wear a dark blue ribbon to show support.

2. Spreading Awareness

Small conversations can lead to life-saving decisions.

• Share accurate facts on social media using hashtags such as #BowelCancerAwareness.
• Post survivor stories or educational content.
• Encourage eligible friends and family to complete their screening kits.
• Access educational materials from the NHS or Cancer Research UK.

3. Connecting to Community

• Join a bowel cancer support group locally or online.
• Engage with national networks such as Bowel Cancer UK for advocacy and resources.
• Speak openly with your GP about your risk.

Summary

There have been many advancements in colorectal cancer research over the past year, including AI-assisted colonoscopies that improve polyp detection, success with immunotherapies, enhanced FIT sensitivity, and promising developments in liquid biopsy research. Early detection remains the key factor in improving colorectal cancer outcomes, and taking proactive steps – such as making use of screening services or booking a multi-organ MRI – can save lives by catching colorectal cancer before symptoms appear.

Preventative screening services like Ezra’s multi-organ MRI can detect early warning signs of cancer and over 500 other conditions. Their team of AI-assisted, expert radiologists offers a quick, painless service to provide you peace of mind and ownership over your health. Book your appointment today. 

FAQ

Is colorectal cancer hereditary?

Yes, it can be^7,9, having close family members with bowel cancer raises your risk, but lifestyle matters too; having a family history doesn't mean you'll get it.

What is the survival rate?

Survival rate depends on many factors, but the earlier a diagnosis is made, the better³. 

• Stage 1: 90+ per cent survive 5 years
• Stage 2: 85 per cent survive 5 years
• Stage 3: 65 per cent survive 5 years
• Stage 4: 10 per cent survive 5 years

Is colorectal cancer treatable if caught early?

Yes: early diagnosis = more options = better outcomes. 

At what age is risk highest?

Anyone can develop colorectal cancer, but risk peaks between the ages of 85 and 89^7,8.

Is screening available on the NHS?

Yes, screening is available to everyone aged 50-74¹⁷.

References

1. Bowel Cancer UK. What is bowel cancer? Bowel Cancer UK. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/bowel-cancer/ 

2. Cancer Research UK. Bowel cancer statistics | Cancer Research UK. Accessed January 24, 2026. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/bowel-cancer 

3. Cancer Research UK. Survival for bowel cancer. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer/survival 

4. Bowel Cancer UK. Signs and symptoms of bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/symptoms/ 

5. Bowel Cancer UK. Diet | Reduce your risk | About bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK. Accessed March 3, 2026. https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/risk-factors/reducing-your-risk/diet/ 

6. Bowel Cancer UK. Risk factors | About bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/risk-factors/ 

7. Cancer Research UK. Risks and causes of bowel cancer. Accessed March 3, 2026. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer/risks-causes 

8. Macmillan Cancer Support. Causes and risk factors of bowel cancer - Macmillan Cancer Support. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/bowel-cancer/causes-and-risk-factors-of-bowel-cancer 

9. Bowel Cancer UK. Family history | Risk factors | About bowel cancer. Bowel Cancer UK. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/risk-factors/family-history/ 

10. NHS. Bowel cancer screening. nhs.uk. October 20, 2017. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/bowel-cancer-screening/ 

11. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. New AI tools could help save lives by spotting warning signs of bowel cancer earlier. NICE website: The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. November 20, 2025. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/new-ai-tools-could-help-save-lives-by-spotting-warning-signs-of-bowel-cancer-earlier 

12. World S. Artificial intelligence proves effective in spotting early signs of bowel cancer. Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. August 15, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.newcastle-hospitals.nhs.uk/news/artificial-intelligence-tech-set-to-stay-as-it-proves-its-worth-in-the-fight-against-bowel-cancer/ 

13. Seager A, Sharp L, Neilson LJ, et al. Polyp detection with colonoscopy assisted by the GI Genius artificial intelligence endoscopy module compared with standard colonoscopy in routine colonoscopy practice (COLO-DETECT): a multicentre, open-label, parallel-arm, pragmatic randomised controlled trial. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2024;9(10):911-923. doi:10.1016/S2468-1253(24)00161-4 

14. Li J, Fu T, Wen Z, et al. Advances in the Use of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Colorectal Cancer Treatment. OncoTargets Ther. 2025;18:1159-1168. doi:10.2147/OTT.S551204 

15. GSK. Jemperli (dostarlimab) trial continues to show unprecedented results with no evidence of disease in 100% of patients with locally advanced mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) rectal cancer | GSK. March 6, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/press-releases/jemperli-dostarlimab-trial-continues-to-show-unprecedented-results/ 

16. Holch JW, Ohnmacht AJ, Stintzing S, et al. FOLFIRI with cetuximab or bevacizumab in RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer: Refining first-line treatment selection by combining clinical parameters: A post hoc analysis of the randomized open-label phase III trial FIRE-3/AIO KRK0306. Eur J Cancer. 2025;220:115388. doi:10.1016/j.ejca.2025.115388 

17. NHS. Bowel cancer screening. nhs.uk. October 20, 2017. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/bowel-cancer-screening/ 

18. NHS England. NHS England » NHS to detect and prevent thousands more bowel cancers with more sensitive screening. January 26, 2026. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-detect-prevent-thousands-more-bowel-cancers-more-sensitive-screening/ 

19. Cancer Research UK. Quality Improvement and Optimisation of Bowel Screening. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-screening/bowel-cancer-screening/quality-improvements-future-optimisation 

20. Ma L, Guo H, Zhao Y, et al. Liquid biopsy in cancer: current status, challenges and future prospects. Signal Transduct Target Ther. 2024;9(1):336. doi:10.1038/s41392-024-02021-w 

21. Galoș D, Gorzo A, Balacescu O, Sur D. Clinical Applications of Liquid Biopsy in Colorectal Cancer Screening: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives. Cells. 2022;11(21):3493. doi:10.3390/cells11213493 

22. GOV.UK. Breakthrough in bowel cancer research will speed up diagnosis. GOV.UK. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/breakthrough-in-bowel-cancer-research-will-speed-up-diagnosis 

23. Wang PP, Deng CL, Wu B. Magnetic resonance imaging-based artificial intelligence model in rectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol. 2021;27(18):2122-2130. doi:10.3748/wjg.v27.i18.2122 

24. Alhammami QS. Assessment of the Diagnostic Accuracy of CT as Compared to MRI in Detecting Metastases in Patients With Colorectal Cancer. Cureus. 16(8):e66125. doi:10.7759/cureus.66125 

25. NHS England. NHS England » NHS to detect and prevent thousands more bowel cancers with more sensitive screening. January 26, 2026. Accessed March 11, 2026. https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/nhs-detect-prevent-thousands-more-bowel-cancers-more-sensitive-screening/ 

Image adapted from Figure 2, and used under the Creative Commons license.