Colorectal Cancer Now Leading Cancer Killer Under 50 in US | American Cancer Society Study

Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for individuals under the age of 50, according to research published this week in JAMA. The finding marks a significant shift in cancer mortality trends, as overall cancer death rates have declined by 44% in this demographic over the past three decades.

Researchers from the American Cancer Society analyzed national data from 1990 to 2023, examining deaths per 100,000 people. The study, based on data from the National Center for Health Statistics, revealed that more than 1.2 million people under 50 died from cancer during that period. While deaths from breast, lung, brain cancers, and leukemia all decreased, colorectal cancer mortality increased by more than 1% annually since 2005, ultimately surpassing all other cancer types as the primary cause of cancer death in this age group in 2023.

The surge in early-onset colorectal cancer cases has prompted increased scrutiny of risk factors. Modifiable factors such as obesity, poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol consumption are strongly associated with the disease. Non-modifiable risk factors include family history, hereditary syndromes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Experts note that gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer, are now the fastest-growing type of early-onset cancer diagnosed in the U.S., challenging the traditional perception of colorectal cancer as a disease primarily affecting older adults.

The American Cancer Society report highlights the importance of colorectal cancer screening, recommending it begin at age 45 for individuals at average risk and even earlier for those with a high-risk genetic or family history. Research indicates that screening can reduce incidence and mortality rates through early diagnosis. In 2023, an estimated 153,020 people in the U.S. Will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 52,550 will die from the disease, according to the American Cancer Society.

The shift towards more advanced-stage diagnoses is also a growing concern. Data shows that the proportion of individuals diagnosed with advanced-stage colorectal cancer increased from 52% in the mid-2000s to 60% in 2019. This trend, coupled with the rising incidence in younger populations – with diagnoses in those under 55 doubling from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019 – underscores the demand for increased awareness and proactive screening measures.

Rebecca Siegel, senior scientific director of surveillance research at the American Cancer Society, stated that the rapid increase in diagnoses among younger individuals is “alarming,” and emphasized that the trend toward more advanced disease should motivate individuals 45 and older to get screened. The American Cancer Society is continuing to investigate the underlying causes of the rising incidence in younger generations and working to improve access to screening and treatment for all populations, particularly Native Americans, who have experienced increasing mortality rates.