Colon and rectal cancer, also called colorectal cancer (CRC), is rising in people aged 20 to 45. Experts call the disease in younger people early-onset colorectal cancer. This growing trend highlights the need to get screened and catch CRC early when it is most treatable.
Why Are More Young Adults Diagnosed?
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. In adults younger than 50, CRC is the No. 1 cause of cancer death in men and the second in women.
Most colorectal cancers develop over time from adenomatous polyps, small growths on the lining of the large intestine. Sometimes there are no warning signs for colon cancer, especially in the early stages. Common symptoms to watch for include the following:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Persistent abdominal discomfort
The exact cause of early-onset CRC (EOCRC) is unknown. Some experts have linked the disease to both genetic and environmental factors. So, it is important to know your personal and family medical history.
Risk factors for colon cancer include the following:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Family history of colon polyps and/or colon cancer
- A diet high in processed foods
- Diabetes or obesity
“Unfortunately, none of these factors fully explain the rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger people,” said Benjamin Musher, MD, medical director of medical oncology at the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, in Medical XPress.
New Study Investigates CRC Development
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates there will be about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer this year. The ACS also expects around 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer affects all ages. About 10 percent of all CRC diagnoses occur in individuals younger than 50.
In laboratories across the globe, scientists search for CRC causes and methods to stop the disease. Researchers recently made an important discovery that could help us better understand how CRC develops. Nature Communications published the study.
Scientists used mouse models to explore how certain proteins affect tumor growth. The study looked at the protein p53, which helps prevent tumors, and URI, a protein found in other types of cancer.
Researchers discovered that “if URI was eliminated or p53 levels were increased in polyps, the polyps did not develop into tumors.” They also learned that under the same conditions, “the mice with colorectal cancer lived longer.”
Irene Herranz-Montoya, first author of the study, said further research studies are planned.
“If we focus on investigating the molecular mechanisms that cause p53 degradation, including the increase in URI, in the future, we may be able to intervene in the early stages of cancer and prevent its progression to more aggressive forms of the disease,” Herranz-Montoya said in Medical Xpress.
Screening Can Save Lives: Don’t Wait for Symptoms
As research progresses, following the latest screening protocols is essential to combat the rise in early CRC diagnoses.
Experts recommend that asymptomatic people who have an average risk for colon cancer should start screening at age 45.
Several tests detect colorectal cancer, so discuss with your doctor which screening method is best for you. Colonoscopy is the only CRC screening method where doctors can locate and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
If you opt for different colon cancer screening methods and obtain an abnormal result, it is essential to undergo a colonoscopy to investigate the reasons behind the abnormal findings.
You should start screening earlier if you have a family history of polyps or CRC, IBD or a genetic syndrome. Colonoscopy is recommended as early as age 40 or 10 years before a relative’s age at diagnosis.
Most insurance plans provide coverage for a screening colonoscopy for patients 45 and older. Health insurance coverage varies, so call your provider to confirm you are eligible for a screening colonoscopy.
Take Charge of Your Health. Get Screened.
Colorectal cancer is preventable through timely screenings and can save your life. If you choose a colonoscopy, quality care is available with our network of expertly trained gastroenterologists at our ambulatory surgery centers around the country.
Our ASCs provide:
- Timely, efficient outpatient care
- Lower cost than hospital-based procedures
- Shorter wait times and personalized attention
- Safe, comfortable environment
Prevention and early detection are key in the fight against colorectal cancer. Prioritize your health and schedule your first screening or a follow-up colonoscopy today.