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The risk of colon cancer in young adults has increased over the years. Experts believe that unhealthy food consumption and a sedentary lifestyle could be some of the factors contributing to the alarming trend. ( pixabay )
The number of cases of colon cancer, a disease typically seen in older adults, is increasing rapidly among young adults.
Scientists are "bewildered and bewildered" by the rising trend of colon cancer among young adults born in the 1990s. In addition, people under age 55 are more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer at advanced stage.
Colorectal cancer in young adults
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the disease is most common among men and women aged 50 and over. As age is a major risk factor for the disease, it is recommended that all people over the age of 50 undergo regular colon cancer screening.
However, a study published in 2017 found that adults born in 1990 were twice as likely to develop colon cancer and four times more likely to have rectal cancer than those born in 1950.
Last year, the American Cancer Society recommended that colorectal cancer screening start at age 45 instead of age 50.
Scientists do not know why colon cancer is increasing in adults between 30 and 40 years old. However, Mark Pochapin, professor of medicine and director of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Langone Health of New York University, believes that diet could have something to do with it. with the alarming trend.
"Gastroenterologists and researchers have hypothesized that the increase in this age group could be related to dietary changes, such as the consumption of more sugar and less fiber, and the Systematic use of antibiotics, "he said. "Both factors can alter the community of microbes that inhabit the intestines and help with overall health and metabolism."
He also suggested that the decline in physical activity could also be linked to the rise in colon cancer among young adults.
Edith Mitchell, head of the gastrointestinal oncology program at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center of Jefferson Health, added that young adults are at higher risk of being diagnosed with colon cancer at advanced stage because doctors do not immediately suspect cancer.
"When a 25-year-old complains of bloody bowel movements or a sudden change in his bowel habits, his primary care physician seldom thinks that it could be a problem." 39, a cancer and does not offer screening tests to diagnose the problem, such as a colonoscopy, "said Dr. Mitchell.
Screening for colon cancer
Dr. Pochapin recommends that people with a family history of colon cancer be particularly vigilant and begin screening before the onset of any symptoms.
African Americans, a group with a 20% higher risk of colorectal cancer, should also start screening early. The CDC adds that patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn 's disease and ulcerative colitis, should begin regular screening before reaching the age of 50.
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