Colon cancer awareness: Improving mortality trends for younger adults

Colon cancer awareness: Improving mortality trends for younger adults

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and this is a critical time to spotlight a troubling trend in younger adults. While cancer deaths among Americans under 50 have nearly halved over recent decades, colon cancer remains a persistent and deadly exception.

Recent data from national cancer statistics* reveal a significant decline in mortality rates for most cancers in younger adults, thanks to advances in early detection, treatment and prevention efforts. However, colon cancer death rates in this age group have not followed this encouraging trend, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness, screening and research.

Key facts about colon cancer in younger adults:

• Despite a nearly 50 percent reduction in overall cancer deaths among Americans under 50 since the 1990s, colon cancer mortality rates in this demographic have remained largely unchanged or even increased slightly. (*Source: National Cancer Institute)
• Colon cancer is now one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in adults under 50, a group traditionally considered at lower risk for this disease. (*Source: American Cancer Society)
• Early-onset colon cancer is often more aggressive and is frequently diagnosed at later stages, contributing to poorer outcomes compared to older adults. (*Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)

Dr. Trey Folkers, a gastroenterologist with Emplify Health, explains the factors driving this concerning phenomenon.

"The rise in colon cancer among younger adults is multifactorial. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, sedentary behavior and increased rates of diabetes play significant roles," Folkers said. "Additionally, genetic predispositions and delayed diagnoses due to lack of routine screening in younger populations contribute to this trend. It's critical that we raise awareness about symptoms and encourage earlier screening to improve outcomes."

Colon cancer typically develops from precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum, which can be detected and removed during routine colonoscopies. Current guidelines recommend starting average-risk screening at age 45, lowered from 50 in response to rising early-onset cases. However, many younger adults remain unaware of their risk and the importance of screening.

Emplify Health urges individuals, especially those under 50, to be vigilant about colon cancer symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss. and persistent abdominal discomfort. Early consultation with healthcare providers can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. To set up an appointment for a colorectal screening, please go to gundersenhealth.org/services/gastroenterology-digestive-health/colorectal-cancer-screening.