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Recent research reveals a concerning trend: colorectal cancer rates have been steadily rising among individuals too young for regular screening.
The recommended screening schedule suggests testing every 10 years, beginning at age 45. This study, utilizing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, focused on the incidence rates of colorectal cancer in individuals aged 10 to 44. The findings indicate an upward trajectory in colorectal cancer cases across all age brackets.
Dr. Islam Mohamed, the lead researcher and an internal medicine resident physician at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, stated, "There is a noticeable trend, although we're not certain of its implications yet. It could be due to lifestyle choices or genetic factors, but there is definitely a trend."
While these findings have not yet undergone peer review, they will be presented later this month at the Digestive Disease Week conference in Washington, D.C.
Despite the rising rates, the total number of cases among individuals under 40 remains relatively low. Cases among those under 30 are exceptionally rare. Nevertheless, any increase in such low rates is significant.
The study noted a 500% increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among children aged 10 to 14, rising from 0.1 cases per 100,000 in 1999 to 0.6 per 100,000 in 2020. Similarly, cases among 15- to 19-year-olds increased by over 300%, from 0.3 per 100,000 to 1.3 cases per 100,000. Among those aged 20 to 24, cases rose from 0.7 to 2 per 100,000, marking a 185% increase.
Dr. Folasade May, an associate professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, remarked, "Starting with a very low baseline rate in 15-year-olds, even a slight increase can lead to a substantial percentage rise."
While the increases were less pronounced in individuals over 25, this age group started with higher rates in 1999 compared to the younger age groups. They still observed a significant, albeit moderate, increase in cases. Individuals aged 40 to 44, who are just below the recommended screening age, experienced a 45% increase, from about 15 to about 21 cases per 100,000 people in 2020.
Dr. May emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, "Any colorectal cancer diagnosis in individuals aged 15 to 19 is concerning."
The rise in colorectal cancer rates among individuals under 50 reflects a changing trend, with cases and deaths decreasing among older individuals, according to Dr. Christopher Lieu, co-director of gastrointestinal medical oncology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
This increase in rates among younger people suggests that the elevated risk for colorectal cancer may persist throughout their lives, a phenomenon known as the birth cohort effect.
While doctors are still investigating the reasons behind the rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger generations, Dr. May suggested that environmental factors, such as changes in food processing methods or exposure to plastics, may be contributing factors rather than genetic causes.
While the increase in colorectal cancer rates among younger generations is concerning, experts do not advocate for lowering the screening age for those at average risk. Dr. May stressed the importance of increasing screening rates among those aged 45 and over before considering lowering the screening age
Dr. Lieu emphasized the importance of recognizing the symptoms of colorectal cancer and seeking medical attention if symptoms arise, especially for young patients.
Understanding family history is crucial for early detection, according to Dr. Mohamed. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer should begin screening 10 years before a sibling or parent was diagnosed.