How to Spot & Prevent Colon Cancer as Rates Rise in Younger Adults

In recent decades, experts have noted an increase in colon cancer rates in adults under 50 years old. A study published in 2022 found that, while colorectal cancer rates are decreasing in older adults, rates in adults 50 years old or younger in the U.S. have nearly doubled since the early 1990s. Although the disease still impacts a relatively small number of younger adults, specialists are studying what the possible causes of colon cancer are in younger adults and what certain early signs may be.

Although the disease still impacts a relatively small number of younger adults, specialists are studying what the possible causes of colon cancer are in younger adults and what certain early signs may be.

Possible Ways To Prevent Colon Cancer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that almost all colon cancers begin as polyps in the colon or rectum, which are two significant parts of your large intestine.

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to get screened and have any precancerous polyps removed from your colon or rectum as soon as possible. Following the recent rise in colon cancer rates in younger adults, screenings are now recommended for adults beginning at age 45 through age 75.

Depending on your risk factors, your provider will determine how often you should be screened and may suggest you begin getting screened at a younger age.

Some studies suggest there are certain lifestyle choices that can help reduce your risk of developing colon cancer, including:

• Regular exercise
• Maintaining a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Avoiding tobacco use

Since younger adults often visit their primary care provider less often than older adults, it can be difficult to determine a younger individual’s risk factors for colon cancer and detect warning signs of the disease.

Potential Warning Signs In At-Risk Younger Adults

According to the National Cancer Institute, researchers developed a list of warning signs for colon cancer in younger adults by looking at the reported symptoms of those who were later diagnosed with the disease.

The four symptoms more commonly reported in those who developed colorectal cancer than in those who did not were:

• Abdominal pain
• Rectal bleeding
• Diarrhea
• Iron deficiency anemia

The study found that rectal bleeding, which can be detected through bloody or blackish stools, and iron deficiency anemia had the strongest correlation to early onset colon cancer.

While these symptoms were also common in those diagnosed with colon cancer later in life, investigators found they were much more prevalent in younger adults with the disease.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to determine the cause as soon as possible.

Additionally, learn more about colorectal cancer screening from EvergreenHealth Colon & Rectal Care.

Originally published August 12, 2024.