On 11 November, the UK Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Consortium (eoCRCC) held its third in-person meeting in Edinburgh, bringing together more than fifty clinicians, researchers and patient advocates. While the initiative is UK-led, the programme is opening further to international perspectives in recognition of the growing global challenge of early-onset colorectal cancer. This year’s discussions included voices from Stephen Rowley (UK), Mila Ogalla (Spain) and Katell Maguet (Netherlands).

Updates were shared across a broad portfolio of work, including genetic testing initiatives such as the SCOTTY study, which analyses DNA from younger patients and their parents and remains open to recruitment. Further sessions addressed biospecimens, organoids, epidemiology, diagnostic approaches and patient pathways. The programme reflected both progress over the past year and strengthening momentum for collaborative research. Encouragingly, the consortium has already secured two significant funding awards within its first 12 months.

Katell Maguet presented findings from the DiCE study published earlier this year, Clinical challenges and patient experiences in early-onset colorectal cancer: insights from seven European countries. The results underlined persistent barriers to timely diagnosis, substantial impacts on quality of life and ongoing gaps in support services. People living with early-onset colorectal cancer have specific needs, and health systems must respond with care that is more inclusive, targeted and responsive.

The meeting reaffirmed the value of multi-disciplinary and cross-border collaboration, as well as a shared commitment to improve outcomes for younger people affected by colorectal cancer.

Author:

Katell Maguet