U.S. sees rising cases of colorectal cancer in younger people

Cancer is a significant health concern, with age being a primary risk factor. Over 88 percent of cancer diagnoses in the United States occur in individuals over 50 years old. However, there’s been a concerning trend of rising colorectal cancer cases among younger people, particularly those under 50. Despite overall declines in colorectal cancer rates due to increased screenings among adults over 50, rates for those under 55 have been increasing by nearly two percent each year since the 1990s. This rise is largely attributed to an increase in rectal cancers in the distal side of the colon.

Colorectal cancer is now the top cause of cancer deaths in men under 50 and the second leading cause in women under 50. More than half of colorectal cancer diagnoses are linked to modifiable risk factors such as excess body weight, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco or alcohol use, and dietary habits (high in processed meat, low in calcium or fiber).

Preventative screenings are crucial for early detection and saving lives. However, there’s a need for further research to understand why colorectal cancer cases are rapidly increasing among individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.

Source – CGTN