Beat the Trend of Early-onset Colon Cancer through Timely Screening

Colorectal cancer (CRC) cases rising in young adults is a concerning global trend. The best way to beat the trend is to prevent and detect the disease early through timely screenings.

During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, get informed, take action and spread awareness about this highly preventable disease.

Get Informed About Colorectal Cancer

In 2025, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates there will be about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer. They also expect around 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States.

About 10 percent of all colorectal cancer diagnoses are in individuals younger than 50. Data shows CRC rates in adults aged 40 to 49 years increased by nearly 15 percent over the past decade.

In a recent study, ACS researchers investigated contemporary colorectal cancer incidence trends in younger adults versus older adults worldwide. Data was compiled using the “Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus.” The research is published in The Lancet Oncology.

The study found that early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in 14 countries, including the U.S. Doctors define early onset as cancer in people younger than 50. The rate of early-onset CRC was highest in the U.S. and four other countries.

“This flagship study reveals that increasing rates of early-onset bowel cancer, affecting adults aged 25-49, is a global issue,” said Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK.

Hyuna Sung, PhD, lead author of the study, suggested more research of colorectal cancer trends and prevention methods is necessary.

“Ongoing efforts are essential to identify the additional factors behind these trends and to develop effective prevention strategies tailored to younger generations and local resources worldwide,” said Dr. Sung, ACS senior principal scientist, cancer surveillance research.

Take Action by Getting Screened at 45

Talking to your healthcare provider about screening is the first step to beat the trend of early-onset colorectal cancer.

Clinicians play a key role in colorectal cancer awareness, detection and prevention. Proactive steps may help reduce delays in diagnosis and decrease mortality rates for some patients.

“Although the rapid rise in CRC in young adults is alarming, we know we can beat the trend by educating our patients about the importance of screening along with paying attention to symptoms that could be a sign of colon cancer,” said AMSURG Medical Staff Lead Jay Popp, MD, MACG.

Common warning signs may include the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Change in bowel habits

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises people at average risk to undergo a baseline screening at age 45. If you have digestive symptoms that may be experienced with CRC, seek medical attention regardless of your age.

Scientists are unsure of exactly what causes colorectal cancer. Some studies link CRC to dietary habits, physical inactivity and excess body weight. Consult your doctor if you have risk factors like a family or personal history of CRC or polyps, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. You may need to be screened earlier than 45.

“Screening works!” Dr. Popp said. “Ask your healthcare provider about what screening test is best for you.”

Screening Options for Colon Cancer

Several screening tests can detect colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is the only screening method that can detect and prevent the disease. During this procedure, you are under sedation while your gastroenterologist examines the entire length of your colon for polyps or abnormalities.

“Since almost all colon cancers begin as a small growth called a polyp, during screening colonoscopy these polyps can be identified and removed, thus preventing cancer from developing,” Dr. Popp said.

If you choose an alternate colon cancer screening and receive an abnormal result, you must follow up with a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the positive test.

Failing to follow up or delaying a colonoscopy may increase your risk of colon cancer. This may result in an advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis.

“When detected in its early stages, before it has had a chance to spread to other organs, colon cancer is beatable, with a five-year survival rate of 90 percent,” Dr. Popp said.

Most insurance plans provide coverage for a screening colonoscopy for patients 45 and older. Healthcare coverage varies, so call your provider to confirm you are eligible for a screening colonoscopy.

Spread Awareness About CRC

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The ACS estimates CRC will cause about 52,900 deaths this year.

In adults younger than 50, colorectal cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in men and the second in women.

Timely screening is key to survival.

An estimated 55 million adults between 45 and 85 are eligible for a colorectal cancer screening in the U.S. Yet, one-third of Americans are overdue for their screening.

Don’t delay in scheduling your preventive care. If you are 45 or older and unscreened, it is time to take action.

Getting screened may inspire others to do so. Encourage your friends and loved ones to get screened, too. It could save their lives.

Even if you are not a part of the screening demographic yet, you can help spread the message. Wear a blue ribbon or shirt on Dress in Blue Day (March 7) to spread awareness and honor those affected by colorectal cancer.

In March — and year-round — it’s important to prioritize your colon health. Make an appointment with your gastroenterologist for your first colorectal cancer screening or a follow-up colonoscopy. Talk to your doctor about how often you should get screened and which method is best for you. Together we can beat the trend!