Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Growing Concern

Turning 50 is often accompanied by health screenings, including colonoscopies. However, the rise of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) in individuals under 50 is a growing concern. While rates of colorectal cancer in older age groups have been declining due to screening programs, the opposite trend is seen among younger individuals.

Previously rare, EOCRC now represents approximately 10% of all new colorectal cancer cases globally. This number is projected to more than double by 2030, with EOCRC expected to become the leading cause of fatal cancer in Americans aged 20 to 49.

The reasons behind this increase are not fully understood, prompting a new research project to investigate potential causes and whether EOCRC may be a distinct and more aggressive form of the disease. As screening protocols are expanded to include younger age groups, such as England lowering its screening age to 50, and the development of less invasive testing methods…