A recent report from the American Cancer Society highlights a concerning trend: more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, especially rectal cancer. Between 1995 and now, the percentage of new cases in people under 65 jumped from 27% to 45%. In contrast, rates among those aged 65 and older are declining.
Rectal cancer is particularly notable; it now makes up nearly a third of all colorectal cancer cases. From 2018 to 2022, diagnoses of rectal cancer rose by 1% each year across all age groups. Experts like Dr. Arif Kamal from the American Cancer Society say this rise is alarming. He noted that until recently, colorectal cancer was rarely seen in younger individuals.
The report shows how colorectal cancer rates among younger people have surged since the late 1990s:
– Diagnoses increased by 3% per year for those aged 20 to 49.
– For adults aged 50 to 64, rates went up by 0.4% per year.
– Meanwhile, rates for those 65 and older dropped by 2.5% annually.
As colorectal cancer becomes more common in younger adults, doctors are emphasizing the importance of understanding the disease, especially considering the alarming 4- to 6-month delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis for younger patients. Andreana Holowatyj, an oncology assistant professor at Vanderbilt University, highlights the need for better education about symptoms among younger generations.
So, what are the symptoms? Colorectal cancer includes both colon and rectal cancers. Rectal cancer symptoms can be more pronounced, often involving bright red blood and a strong urge to use the bathroom. Colon cancer symptoms, on the other hand, can be vague, such as fatigue and abdominal discomfort.
Screening for colorectal cancer used to begin at age 50, but in 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the screening age to 45. Still, only about one-third of individuals aged 45 to 49 are participating in screenings. Alarmingly, around three-quarters of colorectal cancers in younger adults are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Professionals like Caitlin Murphy from the University of Chicago suggest that those under 45 with concerning symptoms be fast-tracked for evaluation. The current healthcare system often leads to long wait times for diagnosis, which can let the cancer progress.
Experts are also focusing on prevention. Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in those under 50. The report predicts that by 2026, there will be around 158,850 new colorectal cancer cases in the U.S., leading to more than 55,000 deaths, many of which will be in individuals younger than 65.
Controllable risk factors, such as smoking, high alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and obesity, are linked to more than half of colorectal cancer cases. Dietary changes, like increasing fiber and cutting processed meats, can lower risk significantly, according to the American Cancer Society.
Recognizing symptoms early, advocating for timely screenings, and focusing on lifestyle factors can make a meaningful difference in combating this rising health issue.
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