Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 03 Sep 2024
Why Are Colon Cancer Cases Rising Among Youngsters In The US?
Obesity and lack of physical activity are causing colon cancer among youngsters
Colon or rectal cancer usually develops in people under the age of 50 years and is treatable if detected well in time. According to experts, the rates of early-onset colon cancer in the country have been on a constant rise since the 90s. However, in the last few years, there has been a sharp incline in the cases among youngsters.
Healthline says the incidence rate of early-onset colorectal cancer in the United States was 4.8 cases per 100,000 people in 1994, but by 2022, it was staggered at 10.1 per 100,000 people.
Why are colon cancer rates rising?
According to experts, there are several reasons why there is a sharp increase in young people being detected with colon cancer, which include a combination of factors like dietary changes, increased obesity rates, and lower physical activity.
CDC says there has been a 71 per cent increase in colorectal cancer cases in those aged between 35-30 years and a 58 per cent rise in 35-39 years of age. According to doctors, currently, early-onset colorectal cancer makes up about 10 per cent of new cases across the country, but it is estimated that this could rise to 25 per cent.
Sporadic vs inherited colon cancer
Many people get colon cancer because of the inherited gene mutations that are linked to the dreaded disease. Experts say others have it sporadically due to lifestyle issues.
According to statistics, at least 70 per cent of colorectal cancers are sporadic, and 25 per cent are caused by inherited genes. The rest 5 per cent are linked to inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome. Since most colorectal cancer in young people seems to be sporadic, doctors say lifestyle changes over the past 30 years play an important role, which include:
Obesity
It is one of the biggest risk factors. Studies say women with obesity had a 20 per cent higher risk of early-onset colorectal cancer than those without. Excess body fat in early life increases the chances of colon cancer due to inflammatory molecules produced by fat tissue called cytokines that bring changes in the colon.
Diabetes
High blood sugar levels that cause diabetes are also one of the major factors why young people are falling prey to colon cancer. Studies say men and women with diabetes reached the same level of risk for colorectal cancer at age 45 as people without diabetes at age 50.
Signs and symptoms of colon cancer in young adults
The symptoms of colon cancer are almost similar to those of gastric issues or conditions like Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome. However, they worsen as cancer spreads throughout the body. A few of those include:
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Diarrhoea
- Anemia
- Constipation
- Bowel issues
- Bloating
- A lump in your abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight loss
Ways to prevent colon cancer among the youth
According to the CDC, one of the best ways to prevent end-stage colon cancer is regular screening, which can detect this disease early and can be treated. Doctors also suggest taking care of your lifestyle habits that contribute to developing colon cancer, a few of which include:
- Make sure to do physical activity daily
- Maintaining a body weight
- Eating a diet low in animal fats and high in fibre, protein, and vitamin
- Quitting alcohol and smoking
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