Colorectal Cancer and Young Folks

THE PROPORTION OF COLORECTAL CANCER in people under 55 doubled between 1995 and 2019. The proportion increased from 11 percent in 1995 to 20 percent in 2019. Today we explore the observation that more young folks have colorectal cancer.

Of the approximately 1.3 million people in the United States living with colorectal cancer in 2019, about 273,800 were younger than 55.

These disturbing statistics mean that individuals born after 1990 are twice as likely to receive a colon cancer diagnosis and four times more likely to hear that they have rectal cancer (than people born in 1950). That’s according to a 2017 study.

Look at this disturbing statistic: In seven years, colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer deaths in people ages 20–49. In contradistinction, the incidence is falling for those over 50.

More Young Folks Have Colorectal Cancer. Why?

There are several reasons why young people may be getting colorectal cancer:

1. Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. These factors are not uncommon among younger generations.
2. Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to colorectal cancer. If someone has a family history of colorectal cancer, they may be at a higher risk of developing the disease at a younger age.
3. Delayed screenings: The American Cancer Society recommends that people begin getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 45, but many younger people are not getting screened. Delayed screenings can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of cancer progression.

Colorectal Cancer Guideline | How Often to Have Screening Tests
The COVID-19 pandemic initially resulted in most elective procedures being put on hold, leading to many people not…www.cancer.org

4. Changes in the microbiome: The microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the gut, has been shown to play a role in developing colorectal cancer. Changes in the microbiome due to factors such as antibiotic use, diet, and lifestyle may increase the incidence of colorectal cancer in younger people.

Optimize Health Through Your Gut
How exercise influences your gut microbiome.medium.com

5. Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Young people today may be exposed to more environmental toxins and pollutants than previous generations.

We don’t understand the rise in the incidence of colorectal cancer among young folks.

It is important to note that while the incidence of colorectal cancer is increasing among younger people, it is still relatively uncommon in this age group. However, it is important for young people to be aware of the risk factors and to discuss screening options with their healthcare provider.

“When beggars die, there are no comets seen;
The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.”
– Shakespeare, Julius Caesar (Act II, Scene II, Line 31)Photo by Thom Milkovic on Unsplash

Reducing your colorectal cancer risk

Here are six ways that you might reduce your risk of developing (or dying from) colorectal cancer:

1. Get screened. Screening tests search for cancer before symptoms develop. A range of tests are available and can often find colorectal cancer earlier when management is more likely to be successful. The American Cancer Society recommends that those at average risk start screening at age 45. Screening maneuvers such as colonoscopy can find and remove precancerous growths (polyps) in the colon or rectum. Removing them lowers cancer risk. Please talk with a valued healthcare provider about the type and timing of screening that might be right for you.
2. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are associatedwith a lower colon or rectal cancer risk. The American Cancer Society suggests eating less red meat (beef, pork, or lamb) and processed meats (hot dogs and some luncheon meats), although I am unaware of high-level evidence for the former.
3. Move. If you are not physically active, you might have a greater chance of developing colon or rectal cancer. Being more active may reduce your risk. Learn more here: cancer.org/foodandfitness.
4. Take control of your weight. Being overweight increases your risk of getting and dying from colorectal cancer. Eating healthier and increasing your physical activity can help you control your weight.
5. Don’t smoke. If you smoke and want to quit (or know someone else who does), please see the American Cancer Society guide to quitting tobacco or call 1–800–227–2345. Getting help increases your probability of successfully quitting.
6. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol use is linked with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society offers that it is best not to drink alcohol. But if you do, aim for no more than two drinks daily for men and one drink for women. A standard drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (hard liquor).

Lifestyle habits (including a good diet, maintaining a reasonable weight, and physical activity — even 30 minutes of five days per week walking plus two sessions of resistance training weekly is adequate — can lower the risk of colorectal and other cancer types. Plus, you may lower your risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, and more.

“Everyone can master a grief but he that has it.”
Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing (Act III, Scene II, Line 27)

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The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.

Thank you for reading “Colorectal Cancer and Young Folks.”