Doctors are perplexed by the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in young individuals.

Signs of colorectal cancer sometimes begin with diarrhea, abdominal cramps or unexplained weight loss, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Although people over 50 are advised to begin screening for colorectal cancer, a 2021 statement from the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended that colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45.
According to a 2023 article published in the California journal Cancer for Clinics, cases of colorectal cancer have been declining since the early 2000s. But that decline has been slowed by an increase in cases among people under the age of 55. The rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses among people under the age of 55 has increased sharply; This represents 20% of cases in 2019.
In general, the incidence of colorectal cancer is declining. But more people are being diagnosed with the condition at a much younger age.
A 2021 article in JAMA Network Open predicted that by 2040 colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer death in the 20-49 age group. An article published in Science magazine in 2023 says that when people in this age group are diagnosed, their cancer is often at an advanced stage. Therefore, researchers are confused about the cause of this rise, according to what was published by the specialized medical website, “Health Digest”.
For this, researchers are looking closely at several risk factors for colorectal cancer (via Science). Some suggest that childhood and adolescent obesity, combined with lack of exercise, is linked to an increased risk of early-onset colorectal cancer. High blood pressure, high blood sugar, and type 2 diabetes are also associated with this cancer. An unhealthy diet rich in sugary drinks and red and processed meats may also play a role. Environmental toxins and increased use of antibiotics can also increase cases of colorectal cancer in people under the age of 50.
“We know that rates are increasing among young adults, but it’s worrying to see how quickly patients are turning into Younger age, despite the shrinking numbers of the total population. The trend towards more advanced disease in people of all ages is also surprising and should motivate everyone 45 and older to get tested.”
According to an article published in 2021 in JAMA Network Open, colorectal cancer cases and deaths have been declining overall because more people are getting screened. In 1987, only 35 percent of people over the age of 50 were screened for colorectal cancer. But that number jumped to 66% by 2010.
The National Cancer Institute says regular colorectal cancer screenings can detect abnormal tissue before symptoms appear. These tests include a fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy or stool DNA test.
Finally, many colorectal cancer risk factors, such as age, family or personal history, genetic ties, or race, cannot be controlled. But cutting back on alcohol (or drinking in moderation), quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are factors you can control, according to the National Cancer Institute.
You can protect yourself from colorectal cancer by incorporating (or maintaining) physical activity into your lifestyle. Research is still not clear on exactly how a healthy diet might protect you against colorectal cancer. So the American Cancer Society recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent cancer. She also suggests limiting red and processed meats, sugary drinks and processed foods.