There’s been a concerning rise in colon cancer cases among younger people. Understanding why this is happening is crucial to developing strategies to prevent and treat it. Various factors, including lifestyle changes, obesity, delayed diagnosis, genetics, and environmental influences, all contribute to this trend.
Lifestyle Changes
Today’s young adults often lead sedentary lives, make poor dietary choices, and consume lots of processed foods. These habits significantly increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer over time.
Obesity Epidemic
Obesity is a major factor in the increase of colon cancer cases. More than 40% of Americans are obese, heightening the risk of various cancers due to factors like insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, which are linked to colon cancer.
Delayed Diagnosis and Screening
Unlike older adults who regularly get screened for colon cancer, young adults often delay screening until symptoms become severe. This can allow the cancer to advance, complicating treatment and reducing survival rates.
Financial Burdens
Cancer diagnosis is not only stressful but also expensive. Many young adults, without substantial savings, struggle with the high costs of medical screenings and cancer treatments.
Genetic Factors
While lifestyle plays a big role, genetics can also influence colon cancer risk. Those with a family history of the disease or genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome are more susceptible.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to carcinogens in the air, water, and food supply, including industrial pollutants and pesticides, has been linked to an increase in various cancers, including colorectal cancer.
Delay in Seeking Medical Attention
Young adults often ignore or downplay symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits. The embarrassment associated with discussing these symptoms and misunderstanding their severity can delay early detection and treatment.
Should Young Adults Get Screened Early?
Traditionally, colonoscopies are recommended for individuals aged 45 to 75. However, due to rising cases in young people, those at high risk might need earlier screening. Consider talking to your doctor about early screening if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, genetic syndromes, concerning symptoms, or a personal history of diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Prevention Tips
While you can’t completely prevent cancer, certain lifestyle adjustments can reduce your risk:
- Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, and limit red and processed meats. Aim for high-fiber, low in saturated fats and sugars.
- Exercise: Stay active with regular exercise, aiming for at least 30 minutes most days.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy body weight, as obesity increases cancer risk.
- Limit Alcohol: Moderate your alcohol intake—up to one drink a day for women and two for men.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking increases your risk for many cancers, including colon cancer.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Work with your doctor to manage conditions like diabetes or irritable bowel disease effectively.
Be Aware of Warning Signs
Don’t assume you’re too young for cancer. Be vigilant about regular screenings and proactive about your health to catch any issues early, regardless of your age. Awareness and proactive health decisions are key to prevention and early detection.