Colorectal cancer has long been considered a disease that mainly affects older adults. However, recent data show that the disease is becoming more common among younger people. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer rates among Americans aged 20 to 49 increased by about 3% each year from 2013 to 2022.

In 2026, about 158,850 people in the United States are expected to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and about 55,230 people are expected to die from it. The percentage of patients younger than 65 has also increased over time. In 1995, about 27% of new colorectal cancer patients were under 65, while today the figure is closer to 45%.

Researchers are still studying why colorectal cancer is increasing among younger adults. Possible factors include obesity, low physical activity, diet, family history, and inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome. However, these factors do not fully explain the increase.

Another concern is that the disease is often diagnosed at a later stage in younger patients. About three out of four patients under age 50 are diagnosed after the cancer has already spread locally or to other parts of the body. Symptoms can include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.

Because of these trends, screening guidelines have changed. The American Cancer Society now recommends that adults at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Screening methods include colonoscopy, stool-based tests, and some newer blood-based tests.

Colorectal cancer is no longer a disease that only older adults need to think about. The increase in colorectal cancer among younger people shows the importance of recognizing symptoms and getting appropriate screening. Researchers are still working to understand why this trend is happening, but early detection remains one of the most important ways to improve treatment outcomes.

이지현 강남포스트 학생기자단  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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