Overall colon cancer rates in the United States have declined steadily over the last 30 years. But rates of colon cancer in young adults have risen dramatically during this period for unknown reasons.
Colon or rectal cancer that develops in people under age 50 is often referred to as early-onset colorectal cancer. Rates of early-onset colorectal cancer in the United States have
The incidence rate of early-onset colorectal cancer in the United States was
Researchers have proposed several theories about why rates continue to increase in young adults. One theory is that a combination of factors likely contribute, such as dietary changes, increased obesity rates, and lower physical activity.
Keep reading to learn more about the potential reasons why colon cancer rates are on the rise in young adults.
Colon cancer is the
People with early-onset colorectal cancer tend to have more aggressive and more advanced cancer than older adults.
Currently, early-onset colorectal cancer makes up about 10% of new cases of colorectal cancer in the United States, but it’s estimated that this could
Here’s a look at how rates have changed since 1994 based on the National Cancer Institute’s
It’s not clear why rates are rising for young adults, but most cases of colon cancer aren’t linked to a family history.
Sporadic versus inherited colon cancer
Colon cancer is called sporadic when it develops in people without inherited gene mutations linked to cancer.
Most colorectal…
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