Young Adult Rectal Bleeding strongly Linked to Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer, Study Finds
louisville, KY – Rectal bleeding in adults under 50, often dismissed as hemorrhoids, is a notable warning sign for early-onset colorectal cancer and warrants immediate inquiry with a colonoscopy, according to new research from the University of Louisville School of Medicine. The study, published this week, reveals a striking correlation between this symptom and a substantially increased risk of diagnosis.
Colorectal cancer rates are rising dramatically in younger adults, defying customary risk profiles. This research aims to refine screening guidelines and improve diagnostic accuracy in this population. Principal investigator Sandra Kavalukas, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Louisville, emphasized, “Manny of the early-onset colorectal cancers I see have no family history.” The findings underscore the importance of considering symptoms, rather than solely relying on age or genetic predisposition, when evaluating patients.
Researchers analyzed data from 443 patients under the age of 50 who underwent colonoscopies within the University of Louisville Healthcare system between 2021 and 2023.The study revealed that 44% of this group received a diagnosis of early-onset colon cancer. notably,88% of those diagnosed with colon cancer had sought a colonoscopy due to symptoms,primarily rectal bleeding. In contrast, only 55% of patients found to be cancer-free underwent the procedure due to symptoms.
The study also found that only 13% of the colon cancer cases exhibited markers associated with increased genetic risk. Furthermore, patients diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer were nearly twice as likely to be former smokers. Kavalukas explained, “If they are 35 years old and come in with rectal pain, they probably don’t need a colonoscopy. But if they come in with a complaint of bleeding, they are 8.5 times more likely to have colorectal cancer.”
The researchers hope these findings will encourage physicians to prioritize colonoscopies for younger adults presenting with rectal bleeding, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.
