Colorectal cancer cases are on track to become the leading cause of cancer deaths among adults under 50 by 2030. Experts warn that early detection is crucial as the disease can be treated with proper screenings.
According to Dr. Rachel Issaka, a UW Medicine specialist, colorectal cancer cases have doubled in people under age 50 over the past three decades. A Westernized diet appears to be an influential factor in this trend.
Data shows that in people younger than 50, colorectal cancer rates have increased by 2.4 percent per year from 2012 to 2021. Colon cancer can occur at any age without symptoms, making early detection essential.
“Colon cancer is preventable and treatable with proper screenings,” says Dr. David Parsons, a colon and rectal surgeon. “A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is an effective screening option that can be conducted at home.”
To combat the rise in cases, Fred Hutch Cancer Center will host a colorectal cancer screening day on March 21. The center will conduct multiple first-time colonoscopies simultaneously in dedicated procedure suites.
Experts point to factors such as obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in red meats and processed meats as contributing to the disease. Research suggests that eating red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 30%, while processed meat by 40%. However, genetic background may play a role, and not everyone who consumes these foods will develop the disease.
The American Cancer Society recommends colon cancer screenings begin at age 45, with earlier screening for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps. Early detection is key to preventing this preventable disease from becoming deadly.
Source: https://katu.com/news/local/colorectal-cancer-cases-rise-among-younger-adults-experts-urge-early-screening