Rising Cases of Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults
Key Differences Between Young and Old Patients
According to a recent report, cases of colorectal cancer in people under 50 are expected to nearly double by 2030, and it will become the leading cause of death for people aged 20 to 49. While overall colon cancer diagnoses have decreased, the increasing cases in younger adults are a cause for concern. Experts believe that something happened in the 1950s and 1960s that triggered the current cases of young onset colorectal cancers. Researchers are trying to identify the reason behind this trend and explore possible preventive measures.
Environmental and Behavioral Changes
Multiple factors could contribute to the rising rates of colorectal cancer in young people. Behavioral and environmental changes are among the aspects being investigated. Researchers are looking at variables such as the age of parents at the time of the patient’s birth, method of birth (C-section or vaginal), breastfeeding, antibiotic use, and even wifi exposure. Identifying the correlations between these variables and colorectal cancer could help create targeted prevention strategies.
The Importance of Screening
One of the challenges with diagnosing colorectal cancer in young adults is the lack of routine screenings. Younger patients often get diagnosed at later and more advanced stages of the disease because they are not being screened regularly. Increased awareness and early screenings among young adults could lead to the detection of colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment options are more effective.
Advocacy for Proper Care
Many young adults, like April Witzel, a diagnosed colorectal cancer patient at age 45, face challenges when seeking proper care. Lack of awareness and adequate consideration from healthcare professionals are common issues. Younger patients might have to see several doctors before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Training healthcare professionals to recognize and address colorectal cancer symptoms in younger patients is crucial to providing timely care.
Timely Detection and Early Intervention Matter
The majority of younger colorectal cancer patients do not have a family history of the disease and often lack a genetic predisposition. Even those with a healthy lifestyle, such as vegetarians and marathon runners, have been affected. Early screening becomes even more crucial in such cases. Dr. Robin Mendelsohn, a gastroenterologist and Co-Director at the Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastroinstestinal Cancers, emphasizes the importance of colonoscopies for early detection of cancer and removal of potential polyps.
Increasing Awareness
Increasing awareness about colorectal cancer and the importance of early detection is vital. Younger individuals are encouraged to discuss their family history, be proactive in seeking proper care, and undergo timely screenings. By being informed and taking action, young adults can catch colorectal cancer in its early stages and improve their chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. Discussion and open communication about family medical histories are crucial to ensure that warnings and preventive measures are in place.
Helping to educate others about the significance of colorectal cancer screenings can potentially save lives. If you’d like to support colorectal cancer research and aid patients in their fight against cancer, you can learn more here. Together, we can make a difference.
