Colon cancer is no longer rare among those under 45.
In fact, cases are growing in the younger adult population.
Public awareness jumped after actor Chadwick Boseman died from colon cancer in 2020 at age 43.
What’s behind this increased number of younger diagnoses?
A large international study published in The Lancet Oncology found rising diagnosis rates in 27 of 50 countries between 2013 and 2017 for adults under age 50.
Researchers Siegel et al (Lancet Oncology) believe this reflects widespread lifestyle changes. It’s not a genetic mutation that’s affecting all these countries.
- Dietary changes are a prime culprit.
- Declining levels of physical activity plays a big part also.
- Environmental exposures may also be contributing
What You Eat
Diet is increasingly recognized as a major risk factor for colorectal cancer.
High intake of ultra-processed foods is linked to inflammation.
Red and processed meats and sugary drinks have also been associated with higher cancer risk.
There are no studies, however, comparing consumption of conventional beef (grain-fed) to grass-fed when it comes to colon cancer risk.
Instead, all meat is lumped into the broad category of “red.” Grass-fed beef is a much healthier form than conventional.
Other types of red meat that should not be held suspicious for bad health outcomes are lamb, bison, buffalo and elk.
Obesity and Colon Cancer Risk
Obesity is another important factor tied to cancer of the colon.
Excess body fat can drive chronic inflammation. It can also interfere with normal metabolic processes.
However, the link is more complex than it appears. Many people with colon cancer lose weight unintentionally before diagnosis.
An analysis of 18 studies found this pattern was common. This suggests standard obesity measurements may not fully explain cancer risk.
Genetics
Genetics are behind many early-onset cases.
Inherited cancer syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis greatly increase risk.
These conditions are caused by mutations in tumor-suppressor genes. They often lead to cancer developing at a younger age.
However, these specific genetic situations don’t explain the rise in colon cancer among people under 50.
Genetic testing can be critical for people with a family history of colorectal cancer.
Identifying inherited mutations allows doctors to recommend lifelong monitoring (e.g., earlier and more frequent screening colonoscopies) and earlier treatment.
Stool-based DNA tests can detect cancer-related genetic markers.
These non-invasive tests may help identify problems earlier, even before symptoms appear.
Symptoms are frequently overlooked. Changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or fatigue, constipation, a feeling of incomplete voiding, and ongoing abdominal discomfort are common warning signs.
