Colorectal Cancer Rising Among Under-50s as Experts Search for Answers

The death of US actor James Van Der Beek has once again highlighted a troubling global health trend
The death of US actor James Van Der Beek has once again highlighted a troubling global health trend: a sharp rise in colorectal cancer cases among people under the age of 50.

The former Dawson’s Creek star passed away at 48 after battling stage three colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer.

His death follows that of Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman, who died from the same disease in 2020 at just 43.

According to cancer epidemiology professor Helen Coleman of Queen’s University Belfast, cases among under-50s have increased by roughly one-third since the 1990s.

Research published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death among Americans under 50.

While the statistics are concerning, experts stress that the overall number of cases among younger people remains relatively low.

Around six percent of colorectal cancer diagnoses occur in people under 50.

However, younger patients are often diagnosed at later stages because they and their doctors may not initially suspect the disease.

What Is Causing the Increase?

Traditional risk factors include obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking and alcohol use. However, researchers say these factors alone do not fully explain the rapid rise.

Many younger patients appear otherwise healthy. Van Der Beek himself said he had been actively focused on health and fitness before his diagnosis.

Scientists are now investigating other potential causes, including changes in the gut microbiome.

A recent study in the journal Nature found that DNA mutations linked to a toxin called colibactin — produced by certain strains of E. coli bacteria — were more common in younger colorectal cancer patients. However, more research is needed to confirm this connection.

Other studies suggest repeated antibiotic use may also play a role.

Experts believe multiple factors, rather than a single cause, are likely behind the trend.

Symptoms and Screening

Common symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)

Blood in stool

Unexplained weight loss

Fatigue

Due to rising cases, the United States lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 in 2021.

In contrast, countries such as the UK and France still begin routine screening at age 50.

Health experts urge individuals aged 45 and above — or younger people experiencing symptoms — to consult a doctor promptly.

 


via Original Source

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