The number of cases of younger people diagnosed with colorectal cancer continues to rise. In response, some health care experts are encouraging young and not-so-young people to adjust their lifestyle habits.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 20% of colorectal cancer diagnoses in 2019 were found in patients younger than age 55. That’s a significant increase from 11% in 1995. Cases continue to rise 1% to 2% every year.
In 2023, ACS expected an estimated new 19,550 colorectal cancer diagnoses and 3,750 deaths in individuals younger than age 50 years of age.
The organization estimates about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer for 2025 and about 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States.
“We’ve been witnessing this increase in colorectal cancer cases in young people,” said Dr. Joseph Bovi, a Radiation Oncologist with ThedaCare Cancer Care. “We know that lifestyle plays a role. This also means people can take steps to reduce their risk of developing the disease.”
Examining the Uptick
In addition to the overall increased rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses in young people, another troubling trend has emerged. The rate of advanced colorectal cancer in people younger than 50 is increasing by about 3% annually, according to the ACS.
“We sometimes find more advanced cancers in young people at the time of diagnosis because they aren’t yet coming in for regular screenings,” Dr. Bovi said. “It’s important to know your family history. This will determine how soon your doctor recommends you begin screening for the disease. Early detection is crucial, as colorectal cancer is highly treatable in its early stages.”
About 30% of people under age 50 who develop colorectal cancer have either genetic factors or family members who have or had the disease.
Risk increases for people who have a personal or family history of polyps, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or type 2 diabetes. In addition, Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition, raises a person’s lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Most people should begin colonoscopy screening at age 45. That’s the recommendation of both the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the U.S. Multisociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer, two groups that provide preventive guidelines. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or who are at increased risk for the disease may need to begin screening at a younger age.
Other Risk Factors
“Though genetics do play a role in developing colorectal cancer, most people diagnosed with the disease do not have a family history or genetic factors that would increase their risk,” Dr. Bovi said. “Lifestyle-related risk factors play a large role in the increase in diagnoses.”
Such lifestyle factors include but are not limited to:
- Excess body weight
- Frequent consumption of processed meats
- A diet high in fats and processed foods
- Alcohol intake
- Long-term smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle
The ACS recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. That’s about 30 minutes per day, five days per week at a minimum. The organization also recommends incorporating strength training and getting at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. That’s about 15 minutes each day.
“Maintaining an adequate level of physical activity reduces your risk of not only colorectal cancers but of many other diseases,” Dr. Bovi said. “Talk to your health care provider before starting a new exercise routine. Starting slowly can help make these habit changes seem less daunting.”
In addition to taking steps to reduce risk, young adults should know the warning signs of colorectal cancer. Warning signs include:
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Diarrhea
- Iron deficiency anemia
Young people experiencing any of these symptoms should talk with their health care provider.
“It can feel uncomfortable talking about changes in bowel habits, and it’s important to follow up on symptoms,” Dr. Bovi said. “Early diagnosis can help improve outcomes and provide additional options for possible treatment.”
He encouraged anyone with questions or concerns to speak with a health care provider, or visit ThedaCare online to schedule a colonoscopy.
