The Journal of the National Cancer Institute published in February that colorectal cancer in young adults has risen dramatically in generations born after 1950. Those currently between the ages of 18-27 have 2 times the risk of developing colon cancer and 4 times the risk of developing rectal cancer than people born in the 1950s when they were between those ages.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and can be referred to as either colon cancer or rectal cancer. Most begin with a polyp appearing on the inner lining of the rectum. Polyps are more common in people aged 50 or above. Read our blog to learn more about the cause of colon polyps.
If a polyp is cancerous, the cells can spread to the wall of the colon or rectum and then to the blood or lymph vessels of the colon or rectum and eventually metastasize throughout the body.
Symptoms of the disease can include:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplainable weight loss
- Changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation) that last for more than a few days
Why is Colorectal Cancer More Common in Younger People Than in the Past?
Scientists and researchers aren’t exactly sure of a specific reason, but some studies suggest factors like:
- An increase in sedentary lifestyles that consist of little to no physical activity
- Negative changes in diet or poor nutrition
- The rise in obesity cases within this age range (18-27)
Advances in early colorectal cancer detection could also help explain why more of these cases are being found in younger people. Researchers continue to work towards finding other contributing factors for developing colon cancer.
Related Reading: What Are Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors, and Who Is at Risk?
What Can I Do to Prevent Colorectal Cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society, there are some colorectal cancer risk factors that are within your control and can help prevent cancer:
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Exercise regularly
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Limit consumption of processed meats and red meats
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Limit alcohol consumption
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Quit smoking
How to Detect Colon and Rectal Cancer Early
Talking to your doctor about getting screened for colon cancer is arguably the most effective way you can reduce your risk. Talk to a Compass Oncology provider in the Portland or Vancouver area about how to be screened for colorectal cancer. A simple test could reveal if you're at high risk for developing colorectal cancer. Colorectal screening methods include fecal blood tests and colonoscopies. During a colonoscopy, your doctor will check the lining of the colon for growths using a flexible tube with a viewing lens. If any abnormal growths are detected, the doctor is able to remove those from the colon.
Related Reading: Screening at Home: What You Need to Know About Colon Cancer Testing
The recommended age for colon cancer screening is 50, and regular screenings thereafter until age 75. Young adults who have a family history of colon or rectal cancer, or are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, should ask their doctor how early and how often they should be tested. Learn more about when you should begin colorectal cancer screenings.
Colorectal Cancer Care in Portland-Vancouver
If you or a loved one has received a colorectal cancer diagnosis, the oncologists at Compass Oncology are here to guide your next steps. We offer the latest treatment options for colon and rectal cancers, including a personalized treatment plan for you based on your specific diagnosis.
