Rising Cases of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: What Young Adults Need to Know

Early-onset colorectal cancer is becoming an alarming health concern, with more young adults under 50 being diagnosed each year. While cancer in any age group is serious, getting the news at a young age can be particularly devastating, disrupting careers, families, and life plans.

According to Dr. Kimmie Ng, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Harvard Medical School, the incidence of both colon and rectal cancer in younger people has been increasing by about 2% per year since the mid-1990s. “It was shocking to see a young, healthy person with no risk factors being diagnosed with Stage 4 disease. Now, this is becoming more common,” she told CNN on the podcast Chasing Life With Dr. Sanjay Gupta.

Key Symptoms to Watch

Early detection is critical. Young people should be aware of red-flag symptoms, including:

Blood mixed in the stool
Unintentional weight loss
Changes in bowel habits (new diarrhea or constipation)
Thinner stools or abdominal pain
Fatigue, possibly due to anemia

Ng emphasizes that embarrassment should never prevent someone from discussing these symptoms with a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors

While genetics can play a role, most early-onset cases are linked to environmental factors, including diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to toxins. Surprisingly, many diagnosed young adults are not overweight and lead healthy lifestyles, suggesting that other environmental exposures may contribute.

The Importance of Screening

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Ng stresses that screening saves lives, and high-risk individuals may need to start even earlier.

If you notice unusual bowel changes or symptoms, don’t wait—talk to your doctor today and help raise awareness about early-onset colorectal cancer.

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