We're very encouraged by the drop in bowel cancer deaths

Dr Lesley Walker, Cancer Research UK

They say one of the reasons for the increase in the numbers suffering from bowel cancer is that people are living longer and there is a decline in death rates from other causes, such as heart disease and stroke.

People's lifestyle may also be a factor. �Many choose high-calorie, meat-rich, low fibre diets and do too little exercise.

Experts recommend eating a balanced diet, including plenty of vegetables, fruit and other foods high in natural fibre and starch and reducing intake of processed meats.

Cancer Research UK is launching a campaign, sponsored by Kellogg's Bran Flakes, to encourage people to hold healthy breakfast parties to raise money for research into bowel and other cancers.

Early diagnosis 'key'

Dr Lesley Walker, director of cancer information at Cancer Research UK, said: "We're very encouraged by the drop in bowel cancer deaths. �One key reason will be a steady improvement for treatment of the disease.

"Increased awareness of the disease also helps. Bowel cancer is one of the most curable forms of the disease if it is diagnosed and treated in the early stages.

"The drop in mortality may be due, in part, to patients being more willing to report the symptoms to their GP early on."

But she added: "More research is still needed to help us understand all the factors that are contributing to the rise in the numbers of people with disease."