However, Bowel Cancer Ireland have criticised this for lacking ambition. He pointed to National Cancer Registry Ireland data showing bowel cancer among under-50s has almost doubled over the past 25 years. “Today's announcement brings the lower age limit to 57, still two years short of even that long-overdue commitment,” Bowel Cancer Ireland said. "If you are 45 or older, ask your GP about bowel cancer screening at every annual checkup,” he urged. Public health medicine consultant with the National Screening Service Dr Alan Smith explained how screening helps prevent cancers.

Source: Irish Examiner April 01, 2026 10:30 UTC