Colorectal Cancer Rising Among Young Adults

The recent diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) in actor James Van Der Beek at age 47 highlights a troubling trend of increasing cases among younger individuals. Medical professionals are noting a doubling in diagnoses for those under 55, attributed to factors such as obesity and lifestyle choices. Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) poses additional challenges, including poorer prognoses and increased psychological and fertility issues for those affected. Globally, CRC remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with significant disparities in treatment availability between high- and low-income countries. Current screening methods primarily consider family history, leaving gaps in prevention efforts, particularly for younger populations. Experts emphasize the importance of early screening to improve survival rates, as CRC increasingly affects younger demographics who are often primary earners in their families.