Early-onset gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are on the rise globally, with colorectal cancer leading the trend. A literature review published in JAMA found that the incidence of early-onset GI cancers has increased by 14.8% between 2010 and 2019.
Colorectal cancer is the most common early-onset GI cancer worldwide, accounting for over half of cases. However, other types of GI cancers, including gastric, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers, are also rising in young people.
The review highlights the need for enhanced prevention strategies and early detection methods. Currently, only colorectal cancer screening guidelines exist for average-risk individuals in the US, but many adults aged 45-49 were not screened in 2021, indicating a significant gap in early detection efforts.
Screening adherence is critical, as each missed screening can lead to a lost opportunity to detect cancer early or prevent it altogether. The authors emphasize the importance of genetic testing for patients with early-onset GI cancers to assess familial risk and guide treatment.
The rise in early-onset GI cancers disproportionately affects certain groups, including people of Black, Hispanic, Indigenous ancestry, and women. The count of early-onset GI cases is highest in those aged 40-49, but the rate increases progressively in younger age groups.
Modifiable lifestyle factors, such as obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol consumption, contribute to the development of these cancers. Nonmodifiable factors include family history and hereditary syndromes like Lynch syndrome.
Treatment approaches for early-onset GI cancers are similar to those for later-onset cases but may involve more aggressive treatment and have similar survival rates compared to older patients. The authors advocate for specialized centers with multidisciplinary teams to support patients with early-onset GI cancers, addressing unique challenges such as fertility preservation and psychosocial distress.
The two reviews together highlight the need for further research on why rates of GI cancers are increasing in younger adults. Limited data exists for pancreatic, gastric, and esophageal cancers, making comprehensive lookups essential for education and awareness.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-literature-reveals-global-gastrointestinal-cancers.html