Jill MacDonald, an ambassador for Fight Colorectal Cancer, was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer at 37 years old in 2015. Over the past nine years, she has undergone numerous treatments and procedures. Initially, her symptoms were dismissed, leading to a delayed diagnosis. Sadly, an increasing number of younger adults are now being diagnosed with colon cancer, with approximately 19,550 people under age 50 expected to be diagnosed each year.
This rise in early-onset colorectal cancer has raised concerns among healthcare professionals, as younger patients are often diagnosed at more advanced stages of the disease and have a lower survival rate. Lack of awareness, delayed diagnosis, and socioeconomic factors are some of the reasons behind this trend.
Delayed diagnosis of colon cancer
Many younger people don’t think of colon cancer as something they could have, which can lead to delays in diagnosis.
Physicians often fail to recognize symptoms in younger adults due to misconceptions about the disease, leading to diagnostic delays. Lack of access to quality healthcare and reluctance to seek medical attention are also contributing factors.
Why are more younger adults being diagnosed with colon cancer?
Research suggests that genetics, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures may contribute to the rise in colon cancer cases among young adults. Poor diet choices, lack of exercise, and socioeconomic disparities are among the potential risk factors identified. Also, the consumption of red or processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Signs and symptoms of colon cancer in younger adults
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer in young adults is crucial for early detection and treatment. Symptoms may include blood in stool, unintentional weight loss, stomach pain, and rectal bleeding. Despite being less common in younger adults, colorectal cancer should not be overlooked.
How to prevent or lower the risk of colon cancer
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Avoiding red or processed meats, consuming a high-fiber diet, and staying physically active are some preventive measures recommended for young adults.
This educational resource was created with support from Merck.
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