Washington – Colorectal cancer, once largely considered a disease of older adults, is now increasingly affecting younger people, becoming the leading cause of cancer death for those under 50 in the United States. The recent deaths of actor James Van Der Beek, at age 48, and, several years prior, Chadwick Boseman at 43, have brought renewed attention to this concerning trend, prompting questions about why diagnoses are rising in this age group and what can be done to protect against it.
The shift is particularly striking because, historically, colorectal cancer was rarely seen in individuals in their 20s, 30s and 40s. “We’re now starting to see more and more people in the 20-, 30- and 40-year-old range developing colon cancer,” said Dr. John Marshall of Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, a cancer doctor with over three decades of experience. “At the beginning of my career, nobody that age had colorectal cancer.” This increase is causing concern among medical professionals, with Dr. Marshall stating the trend is “shaking us all, to be blunt.”
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
More than 158,000 cases of colorectal cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. This year, making it the nation’s second leading cancer killer, behind lung cancer, which is projected to claim over 55,000 lives according to the American Cancer Society. While overall cases and deaths have slightly decreased in recent years, largely due to earlier detection through screening, a disturbing trend is emerging in younger adults.
Last month, researchers with the American Cancer Society reported that colorectal cancer mortality in Americans under 50 had increased by 1.1% annually since 2005, now making it the deadliest cancer in that age group. This year, an estimated 3,890 people under the age of 50 will die from the disease.
Who is at Risk?
While the vast majority of colorectal cancer cases and deaths still occur in individuals 50 and older – a group that has seen a 1.5% annual decrease in deaths over the past decade – the rising incidence in younger adults is a significant concern. Traditional risk factors for colorectal cancer, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, a diet high in red or processed meat and low in fruits and vegetables, smoking, heavy alcohol use, inflammatory bowel disease, and a family history of the disease, apply across all age groups.
However, Dr. Marshall notes that many young patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer do not present with these common risk factors, suggesting other factors may be at play. He speculates that changes in the gut microbiome – the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract – could be a contributing factor.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood in stool or rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool) lasting more than a few days, unintended weight loss, and abdominal cramps or pain. “Don’t ignore symptoms. Get it checked,” Dr. Marshall emphasizes. “Survival is far more likely when colorectal cancer is diagnosed early, before it spreads.”
Screening and Prevention
Current medical guidelines recommend that individuals begin routine colorectal cancer screening at age 45. However, this may be too late for some, particularly those with a higher risk profile. Individuals with a family history of the disease or other risk factors should discuss earlier screening with their doctor.
Screening options include yearly stool-based tests and colonoscopies, which can be performed every 10 years if no abnormalities are found. A newer blood test is too available for adults 45 and older.
The Search for Answers
The exact cause of the increase in colorectal cancer among younger adults remains unknown. Researchers are investigating potential links to diet, lifestyle, environmental factors, and changes in the gut microbiome. Dr. Marshall also points to differences in the location of tumors in younger versus older patients as a potential clue, noting that the location may influence the aggressiveness of the cancer and how it is treated.
The rise in cases among younger adults underscores the importance of increased awareness, early detection, and continued research into the causes of this concerning trend. The American Cancer Society provides comprehensive information on colorectal cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, screening guidelines, and treatment options.
Disclaimer: This article provides general medical information and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
The conversation surrounding colorectal cancer is evolving, and ongoing research promises to shed more light on this disease. The next update from the American Cancer Society regarding colorectal cancer statistics is expected in early 2027. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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