Colon Cancer: Younger Age, Higher Risk
Colon cancer incidence increasing among young Americans and people of color, making it the top cause of cancer-related deaths for men under 50 and the second most fatal cancer for women under 50.
Preventing Colon Cancer Before 50 Risks and Prevention Tips
Did you know that colon cancer rates are rising among young Americans? It’s becoming such a significant concern that cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death for men under 50 and the second most deadly cancer for women under 50. 😱 These alarming statistics were released by the American Cancer Society in its 2024 Report. Now, many experts are calling for better screening in younger patients.
The Rise in Cases Among the Young: What’s Going On?
According to Dr. Folasade May, a cancer prevention researcher and gastroenterologist at UCLA Health, there has been a 45% increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses in people under the age of 50 since 1995. This surge was so dramatic that in 2022, the influential U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended age of first screening from 50 to 45. However, even with this change, it may not be having enough of an impact.
🤔 So, what’s causing more young people to be at risk for colon and rectal cancers? Well, the jury is still out on the exact reasons. Lifestyle and environmental factors, such as chemicals in foods and air, are believed to play a role. Additionally, obesity, alcohol use, tobacco use, physical activity, and even early-life factors like breastfeeding and receiving antibiotics as a child might predict your chances of developing cancer when you’re an adult. It’s a complex web! 😵
The Role of Race
Besides the rise in cases among the young, Americans of color, especially Black people and Native Americans, face higher risks for colorectal cancer. For example, African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups. It’s a troubling trend, and the reasons behind it aren’t entirely clear.
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Historically, minority populations have had higher uninsured rates and less access to preventive care, screening, and treatment. That means cancers in Black patients are often spotted later, when treatments are less effective. Hispanic Americans, on the other hand, have lower rates of colon cancer compared to whites, but they have a rising incidence of young-onset disease and the lowest screening rates. Among Asian Americans, screening rates are also 10% to 20% lower than among white Americans.
Taking Control: Get Screened
The best way to lower your odds of becoming a young victim of colorectal cancer is to follow recommended screening guidelines. Screening can involve tests based on stool samples or more invasive procedures like sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Screening is especially crucial if you carry certain genes predisposing you to colon cancer.
Did you know that nearly 30% of colorectal cancer diagnoses in people under age 50 are related to an underlying family history or genetic mutation? That’s an important reason to find out if you have a family history of colorectal cancer. If you do, talk to your doctor about getting screened at age 40 or earlier.
Even without a family history, regular screenings should start at age 45. This is a relatively new recommendation from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, and unfortunately, many young people are not taking advantage of lifesaving screening technologies.
Fostering Awareness: Importance of Screening in Minority Populations
Greater awareness and access to screening tests are crucial for minority populations. Colorectal screening must be made a priority, and everyone must get screened. Dr. May stresses that “access to screening tests needs to be expanded.”
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms
Most importantly, don’t ignore the symptoms of colorectal cancer. It’s tragic that many younger patients who are dying from colorectal cancer have experienced symptoms for a year or more before seeking medical attention. By the time they finally get a colonoscopy, their cancer has advanced to stage four with a survival rate of only 13%. 😢
The major signs of colorectal cancer include red or black blood in the stool, unintended weight loss, and a change in bowel habits lasting more than a few days. If any of these symptoms arise, screening becomes even more crucial.
Remember, it’s estimated that more than half of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented by early detection through screening. So, people need to start screening early and continue to have it done regularly throughout their lives.
Q&A: Your Questions Answered
Q: Are there any other factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer?
A: Yes, besides lifestyle and environmental factors, other risk factors for colorectal cancer include age (risk increases with age), personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain hereditary conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome. It’s essential to discuss your risk factors with your healthcare provider.
Q: What are the screening options for colorectal cancer?
A: Screening for colorectal cancer can include non-invasive tests like stool sample-based tests, such as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or the multi-targeted stool DNA test (Cologuard). Invasive procedures like sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are also common screening methods. Your healthcare provider can recommend the best screening option for you based on your age, risk factors, and personal preferences.
Q: What actions can individuals take to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer?
A: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can all contribute to a lower risk of colorectal cancer.
For further information and resources, here are some relevant links:
Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your health. Stay informed, get screened, and take control of your well-being. Together, we can fight against colon cancer! 💪
📣 Share the Knowledge!
If you found this information helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Let’s raise awareness about the rising rates of colon cancer and the importance of early screening. Together, we can save lives!
