A new study has identified a potential source behind the alarming trend of colorectal cancer cases rising among young people. Researchers at the University of California San Diego have linked colibactin, a bacterial toxin produced by certain strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli), to the increase in early-onset cases.
The study found that exposure to colibactin during early childhood can alter the DNA of colon cells, increasing the risk of developing colorectal cancer before age 50. The researchers analyzed 981 colorectal cancer genomes from early-onset and late-onset patients across 11 countries and discovered that those who had prior exposure to colibactin were three times more likely to develop early-onset colorectal cancer.
The study’s findings suggest that early-life microbial exposures, such as colibactin, may contribute to long-term cancer risk. The researchers emphasize the need for further studies to determine causality and develop practical prevention strategies.
While the findings do not yet warrant changes to screening or treatment guidelines, they highlight the critical role of early-life microbial exposures in terms of long-term cancer risk. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind colibactin’s association with colorectal cancer and to develop effective prevention measures for young people at high risk.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/exposure-toxin-increases-colorectal-cancer-risk-younger-adults-study-finds