PHOENIX — Colon cancer is no longer considered a disease of older adults. It is now one of the fastest-rising cancers in younger people under 45 — a troubling trend prompting leading health organizations to push for earlier screening.
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 107,000 new cases of colon cancer and more than 46,000 new cases of rectal cancer were expected in the United States in 2025. Combined, colorectal cancer remains the third most diagnosed cancer in both men and women (excluding skin cancers) and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationwide.
Even more concerning: rates in adults under 55 have nearly doubled since the mid-1990s.
“It used to be that colorectal cancer was primarily seen in people older than 60. That is no longer the case . “We are diagnosing more patients in their 40s — and even 30s — often at later stages. That’s why awareness and screening are critical.”
Because of the rise in younger aged diagnoses, the American Cancer Society has lowered the recommended starting age for colorectal cancer screening from 50 to 45 years old. Researchers are continuing to investigate why rates are rising among younger adults, with obesity, ultra-processed diets, low fiber intake, and reduced physical activity believed to contribute.
Colon cancer often develops silently, without symptoms in its early stages. Screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. “Screening isn’t just about finding cancer — it’s about preventing it. “A colonoscopy can remove polyps before they ever become life-threatening.”
Colon cancer does not have a single cause, but risk factors include:
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Personal history of colorectal polyps
- Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Certain inherited genetic syndromes
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
We encourage you to take proactive steps:
- Diet – Lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit red and processed meats. Moderate alcohol.
- Exercise – Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week.
- Healthy Weight – Obesity significantly increases colorectal cancer risk.
- Quit Smoking – Tobacco use increases risk for cancers throughout the digestive tract.
Warning signs may include rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits — but many patients have no symptoms at all in early stages.
“The most important step you can take is scheduling a screening beginning at age 45 — or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer”. “Colon cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable when detected early.”
Dr Neeraj Singh – Colon & Rectal Care Center of Phoenix
https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/colorectal-cancer-is-now-the-top-cause-of-cancer-death-in-younger-people-02f08587
https://www.uc.edu/news/articles/2023/03/wall-street-journal–more-young-people-are-getting-colorectal-cancers.html
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/colon-cancer-in-young-adults-why-are-cases-rising-under-50-and-how-does-stiff-colon-tissue-increase-early-onset-risk/articleshow/129552629.cms?from=mdr