'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD/2wCEAAMDAwMDAwQEBAQFBQUFBQcHBgYHBwsICQgJCAsRCwwLCwwLEQ8SDw4PEg8bFRMTFRsfGhkaHyYiIiYwLTA+PlQBAwMDAwMDBAQEBAUFBQUFBwcGBgcHCwgJCAkICxELDAsLDAsRDxIPDg8SDxsVExMVGx8aGRofJiIiJjAtMD4+VP/AABEIAAYACgMBIgACEQEDEQH/xABgAAEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABQcQAAEEAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAMBAgQFABEGBxIhIgEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAwURAQEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBABEDBCExcf/aAAwDAQACEQMRAD8Aidu9oA4ECRJBFNMLyigZCURvCiiDBtXuFvf6IhvuYHR9G01tSVtg7kE8bpcMB1YkUS+VKxHa36xjA7bQ2jdWtS35codMHlhDmyeIWT15U3c//9k='%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Cases of colon cancer are rising among young adults in America. In a recent report, the American Cancer Society highlighted that colorectal cases have nearly doubled in individuals who are younger than 55.
Also called colorectal cancer - the term combing colon and rectal cancer - colon cancer is a type of cancer that initially begins in the colon, i.e., the large intestine. It generally affects older adults; however, it can happen at any age and usually begins as a non-cancerous clump of cells called polyps.
These polyps form on the inside part of the colon, and over time become cancerous.
The cases in younger adults has risen from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019. And what’s more alarming is that many of the cases are getting diagnosed at an advanced stage.
In fact, many studies believe that colon cancer could become one of the leading causes of death among people aged 20 to 50 by the year 2040 in the U.S. But what’s the reason behind this? Read on to find out.
Why is colon cancer rising among young adults?
While the exact reason behind the rising cases of colon cancer is still unclear, scientists and doctors have some potential theories about the same.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), some genetic conditions can be responsible for the rise of this type of cancer among young adults. However, it is also estimated that only 10% to 20% of colorectal cancer cases are caused by genetic factors.
This suggests that there could be other factors that contribute to the rise in young-onset colorectal cancer, which could possibly include lifestyles and environmental factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, unhealthy diet, smoking, and more.
Who is at greater risk for young-onset colorectal cancer?
Young adults who have the following are at greater risk for colon cancer:
- Certain health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- A family history of colorectal cancer
- Genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis
- Smoking cigarettes
- Moderate to high levels of alcohol consumption
- Consuming a diet that’s high in processed meats
- Low levels of physical activity
What are the major symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Major signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
- Blood in the stool
- Change in bowel habits, such as persistent constipation or diarrhea
- A persistent change in the consistency of the stool
- Rapid weight loss
- Persistent stomach discomforts such as gas, cramps, or pain
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- A feeling the bowel isn’t empty completely
How can you reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?
While not all colon cancers can be prevented, taking some useful preventive measures may potentially help reduce your risk of young-onset colorectal cancer. These include working out regularly for at least 30 minutes, consuming a healthy and balanced diet focusing on nutritious vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, keeping your weight in check, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.
Most importantly, you should see a doctor immediately if you develop any symptoms or signs of colorectal cancer as mentioned above, regardless of your age. Regular screenings, on the other hand, are also important as they can detect colorectal cancer at an early stage.
