A new study by the American Cancer Society (ACS) has found that early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence rates are rising in 27 out of 50 countries worldwide, with 20 experiencing faster increases. The research, published in The Lancet Oncology, analyzed data from 2017 across 50 countries and territories.
According to the study’s lead author, Dr. Hyuna Sung, the increase in early-onset CRC is a global phenomenon, with rising rates observed in young adults in several countries, including the US. However, some countries like Argentina, Canada, England, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand saw stabilizing or decreasing rates among older adults.
The study found that men experienced faster increases in CRC incidence rates than women in some countries, while younger women had higher rate increases in others. Countries with the highest annual percentage increase in early-onset CRC included Chile, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Ecuador, Thailand, Sweden, Israel, and Croatia. Conversely, countries with lower rates observed were Uganda and India.
The ACS emphasizes the need for innovative tools to prevent and control cancers linked to dietary habits, physical inactivity, and excess body weight. The organization highlights the importance of raising awareness about early-onset CRC among young people and primary care providers to reduce delays in diagnosis and decrease mortality.
Source: https://pressroom.cancer.org/Colorectal-Cancer-Cases-Surge-Globally