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Colorectal cancer rates soar among young adults

Research shows a 50 percent rise in colorectal cancer cases in younger Americans during pandemic years.

August 4, 2025 at 03:00 PM
blur Major increase in colorectal cancer in younger adults tied to pandemic years, researchers say

A significant rise in colorectal cancer cases in young adults has alarmed researchers globally.

Surge in colorectal cancer among younger adults linked to Covid pandemic years

New research indicates a troubling rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults in the U.S., particularly before and during the Covid pandemic. Data from the American Cancer Society reveals a 50 percent increase in rates between 2021 and 2022. This surge is partly attributed to a lowered screening age, which was pushed from 50 to 45 years in 2021. Doctors sought to enhance early diagnosis of asymptomatic cases through recommended screenings. Despite the increase in screenings, the overall awareness of colorectal cancer remains low; approximately one-quarter of adults aged 50 to 75 have never been screened. It is further estimated that colorectal cancer could become the leading cause of cancer death for individuals under 50 by 2030.

Key Takeaways

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Colorectal cancer cases in young adults surged 50 percent from 2021 to 2022.
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The screening age was lowered to 45 in 2021 to encourage earlier detection.
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Screening is critical in catching the disease at earlier, more treatable stages.
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A quarter of American adults aged 50 to 75 have never been screened for colorectal cancer.
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Predictions suggest colorectal cancer could be the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50 by 2030.
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Awareness about colorectal cancer remains insufficient among younger adults.

"By reducing the screening age, hopefully you capture more people as they’re entering 50 than you ever did before."

Dr. Rachel Issaka highlights the importance of earlier screenings for younger adults.

"These results reveal a life-threatening gap in public awareness of colorectal cancer."

Dr. Christopher Lieu emphasizes the crucial need for better awareness based on survey findings.

The rising colorectal cancer rates in younger populations point to an urgent health message that is not yet resonating widely. Despite recommendations for earlier screening, many adults still prioritize everyday tasks over crucial health checks. This reflects a significant disconnect in public awareness about the disease, which is often wrongly perceived as only affecting older adults. Without a shift in mindset and increased commitment to screening, the looming prediction for colorectal cancer being the top cancer killer in younger adults could become a harsh reality. Comprehensive public health campaigns are necessary to bridge this alarming gap.

Highlights

  • Colorectal cancer is not just an old person's disease anymore.
  • Fear and indifference could cost lives when it comes to cancer screenings.
  • Early detection is vital, yet many are still in the dark about risks.
  • As colorectal cancer rises, we must shift our perception in society.

Rising colorectal cancer rates may cause health crisis

The alarming increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger adults poses a potential public health risk. Many still neglect essential screenings which could lead to more dire outcomes.

The healthcare community calls for stronger public education on colorectal cancer's risks.

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