Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, with approximately 150,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While the incidence of colorectal cancer has been decreasing in older adults, recent studies have shown a concerning trend of rising rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Over time, the tumor can invade nearby tissues and organs, and may spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:

1. Rectal bleeding
2. Blood in the stool
3. Abdominal pain or cramping
4. Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
5. Unexplained weight loss

While these symptoms may be caused by other conditions, it is important to see a doctor if they persist, as they may be signs of colorectal cancer.

Rising Rates of Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adults

Traditionally, colorectal cancer has been thought of as a disease that affects older adults. However, recent studies have shown that rates of colorectal cancer are increasing in younger adults. According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the incidence of colorectal cancer in adults under the age of 50 has increased by 2% per year since the mid-1990s. Furthermore, the American Cancer Society reports that people born in 1990 have twice the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to people born in 1950.

While the reasons behind the rise in colorectal cancer rates in younger adults are not fully understood, several factors have been identified as potential contributors.

Obesity and Poor Diet

Obesity and a poor diet have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. A diet high in red and processed meats, saturated and trans fats, and low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Obesity, which is often associated with a poor diet, can also increase the risk of colorectal cancer by causing chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, which can lead to the growth of abnormal cells.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle, characterized by low levels of physical activity, has also been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by promoting healthy bowel function, reducing inflammation, and improving insulin sensitivity.

Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and alcohol consumption have both been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic chemicals that can damage the DNA in cells, leading to the growth of abnormal cells. Heavy alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of colorectal cancer by damaging the cells in the lining of the colon and rectum.

Family History of Colorectal Cancer

A family history of colorectal cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease. People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has had colorectal cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves. This is especially true if the relative was diagnosed at a young age or if multiple relatives have had colorectal cancer.

Inherited Genetic Mutations

Inherited genetic mutations can also increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Two inherited genetic syndromes, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome, are known to increase the risk of colorectal cancer. FAP is caused by a mutation in the APC gene and is characterized by the development of hundreds to thousands of precancerous polyps in the colon and rectum.

Without treatment, individuals with FAP have a near 100% chance of developing colorectal cancer by age 40. Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is caused by mutations in genes that repair DNA. Individuals with Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of developing not only colorectal cancer but also other cancers, such as endometrial, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer.

Delayed Diagnosis and Screening

One of the reasons behind the rise in colorectal cancer rates in younger adults may be a delay in diagnosis and screening. Colorectal cancer is typically thought of as a disease that affects older adults, so younger adults may not think to get screened or may be dismissed by their doctors when they report symptoms.

In addition, current screening guidelines recommend that people begin getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 50, so younger adults may not be aware that they should be getting screened earlier if they have risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer.

What Can Be Done to Address the Rise in Colorectal Cancer Rates in Younger Adults?

The rise in colorectal cancer rates in younger adults is a concerning trend that requires action to address. Here are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in younger adults:

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet that is high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, and low in red and processed meats, saturated and trans fats, and sugar can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, as obesity is a known risk factor for the disease.

Stay Active

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by promoting healthy bowel function, reducing inflammation, and improving insulin sensitivity. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

Quit Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that people who drink alcohol do so in moderation, which is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Know Your Family History

Knowing your family history of colorectal cancer can help you understand your risk of developing the disease. If you have a first-degree relative who has had colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about when you should begin getting screened and what screening tests are right for you.

Get Screened

Getting screened for colorectal cancer is an important step in reducing the risk of the disease. Current screening guidelines recommend that people begin getting screened at age 50, but if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, you may need to start getting screened earlier. Screening tests include stool tests, such as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and the high-sensitivity fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and colonoscopy.

Conclusion

The rise in colorectal cancer rates in younger adults is a concerning trend that requires action to address. While the reasons behind the rise in colorectal cancer rates in younger adults are not fully understood, several factors have been identified as potential contributors, including obesity, a poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, alcohol consumption, a family history of colorectal cancer, and inherited genetic mutations.

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