American Medical Association: Colorectal Cancer Surging Among Children & Young Adults

In a troubling trend, children and younger people are increasingly being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, a disease typically associated with individuals over 50.

The American Medical Association (AMA) highlighted this disturbing rise in a new report.

The AMA revealed that younger populations are facing a disturbing reality as cancer rates spike.

Colorectal cancer rates had been in decline since the 1980s.

However, the AMA reported that incidences of the disease among those under 50 have been increasing by approximately 2% per year.

The death rate is now rising by 1% annually.

This shift is alarming, considering that colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.

Doug Corley, the chief research officer of The Permanente Medical Group, expressed grave concern, stating, “Colorectal cancer is a substantial problem that causes a lot of mortality and morbidity,” adding weight to the urgent need to address the growing threat, particularly among younger individuals.

Doctors insist that the precise causes behind the uptick in colorectal cancer cases among young people remain unclear.

They argue that factors like obesity and changes in gut bacteria are believed to play a role in increasing cancer risk.

In May 2024, a study presented at the Digestive Disease Week raised similar concerns, showing that the incidence of colorectal cancer among younger age groups had increased dramatically over the last two decades.

Here are the sobering statistics that reflect these alarming trends:

Ages 10 to 14: Increased by 500%
Ages 15 to 19: Increased by 333%
Ages 20 to 24: Increased by 185%
Ages 25 to 29: Increased by 68%
Ages 30 to 34: Increased by 71%
Ages 35 to 39: Increased by 58%
Ages 40 to 44: Increased by 45%

These numbers are staggering, particularly since colorectal cancer is not typically on the radar for younger people who are not usually considered at risk.

Dr. Islam Mohamed, the study’s lead author, voiced his concerns, stating:

“This data reveals some very concerning trends, particularly in our younger population who do not typically come to mind when considering CRC (colorectal cancer) screening for patients.”

One significant factor that has led to a decline in colorectal cancer rates in older populations is increased screening.

As Corley explained, “If we weren’t doing screening, we would probably be seeing an increase in older people too,” referring to the fact that routine screenings help identify and remove pre-cancerous polyps before they can develop into full-blown cancer.

The American Cancer Society currently recommends that individuals with an average risk of colorectal cancer begin regular screenings at age 45.

While colorectal cancer is on the rise in younger populations, there is a glimmer of hope in early detection.

Corley emphasized the importance of screening, saying:

“The most effective thing we have is screening. It’s so impactful compared to most other medical interventions.”

In fact, a July 2024 study published in the JAMA Network found that the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for colorectal cancer screening resulted in a 33% reduction in mortality overall, with a 42% decrease in risk for cancers of the left colon and rectum.

The simplicity and non-invasive nature of FIT make it an appealing option for many, especially in rural areas where access to medical facilities may be limited.

Corley highlighted the key difference between FIT and the more invasive colonoscopy.

FIT, which detects small amounts of blood in stool, can be done at home, offering greater flexibility and patient choice.

Unlike a colonoscopy, which is usually done once every 10 years, FIT is recommended annually, allowing for regular early detection.

“If we start screening earlier, with methods like FIT, we can prevent cancers from developing or catching them in their early, more treatable stages,” Corley said.

The rise of colorectal cancer in younger people is a call to action.

Medical professionals are sounding the alarm, urging individuals to get screened earlier and more frequently, especially those with risk factors such as obesity or a family history of the disease.

With more accessible screening methods like FIT, there is hope that lives can be saved, and this troubling trend can be reversed.

As these troubling statistics continue to emerge, the focus must shift to early detection, prevention, and ensuring that younger generations are not left vulnerable to a disease that is becoming increasingly prevalent.

Early screening could be the key to saving lives.