Recent research has shown a startling increase in colorectal cancers among younger age groups since the turn of the millennium. It seems these cancers might be slipping under the radar because routine screenings in the U.S. typically start at age 45 and occur only once every ten years.
What’s even more concerning is that the average age of those diagnosed with colon cancer has been dropping over the years, pointing to factors like poor diet, obesity, and exposure to harmful chemicals.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri-Kansas City revealed a staggering 500% increase in colorectal cancer cases among children aged 10 to 14, and a 333% increase among teenagers aged 15 to 19.
Lead researcher Dr. Islam Mohamed, a resident physician, emphasized that colorectal cancer is no longer just an issue affecting the elderly. This worrying trend was observed across all age groups from 10 to 44.
While the rise in cases is significant, it’s important to note that the overall number of cases among those under 40 is still relatively low. For instance, in 2020, the American Cancer Society estimated just 17,930 cases of colorectal cancer in Americans under 50.
Although the actual number of cases is small, even a slight increase in such a rare disease can be significant, especially when considering incidence rates. In 2020, the incidence rate among younger age groups saw notable jumps. For instance, in the 10 to 14 age group, it rose from 0.1 to 0.6 per 100,000 people since 1999. Similarly, in the 15 to 19 age group, it increased from 0.3 to 1.3 per 100,000.
The trend continued into older age groups, with rates rising by 71% among those aged 30 to 34, and 58% among those aged 35 to 39, reaching 6.5 and 11.7 per 100,000 people respectively in 2020. Even the 40 to 44 age group, which saw a comparatively lower percentage increase of 37%, had the highest incidence rate at 20 per 100,000 people in 2020.
In essence, while colorectal cancer remains relatively rare among younger individuals, the concerning upward trend demands attention and further investigation.
