Over the past few years, there has been a shock increase in colon cancer cases in younger patients. At one point, it was unheard of for anyone under the age of 50 to have colon cancer.

However, recent studies have shown that this is no longer the case, and younger people are now being diagnosed with the disease.

Understanding Colon Cancer

Before we delve into the causes of the rise in colon cancer cases in younger patients, let’s first understand the basics of colon cancer. Colon cancer occurs when cells in the colon start growing abnormally.

These abnormal cells can then form a tumor, which can then spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

A number of factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, including age, family history, obesity, smoking, and a diet that’s high in red and processed meat.

However, it’s still unclear as to why younger people are now being diagnosed with the disease.

The Rise in Colon Cancer Cases in Younger Patients

In the past, colon cancer was considered an “old man’s disease.” It was something that affected people over the age of 50.

However, recent studies have shown that the number of cases of colon cancer in younger patients has been increasing steadily over the past few years.

According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the incidence of colon cancer in younger patients has increased by 2% every year over the past two decades.

Another study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention showed that the incidence of colon cancer among people under 35 has increased by 51% over the past two decades.

So why are younger people getting colon cancer? No one knows for sure, but there are several theories:.

Theories on Why Younger People Are Getting Colon Cancer

The Obesity Epidemic

One theory is that the obesity epidemic may be to blame. Obesity has been linked to a number of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and now colon cancer.

Studies have shown that people who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

An Unhealthy Diet

An unhealthy diet, particularly one that’s high in red and processed meat, has also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

With fast food and processed snacks more readily available than ever, it’s possible that younger people are eating more unhealthy food than previous generations.

An Increase in Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption has also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

According to the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, people who consume two or more alcoholic drinks per day have a 50% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than people who don’t drink at all. With binge drinking on the rise among young people, this could be a contributing factor to the increase in colon cancer cases.

An Increase in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a risk factor for colon cancer.

Studies have shown that younger people are being diagnosed with IBD more often than in the past, which could be a contributing factor to the increase in colon cancer cases.

The Importance of Screening

Regardless of the reason for the increase in colon cancer cases in younger patients, it’s important to start screening earlier.

The American Cancer Society and other organizations recommend that people start getting screened for colon cancer at the age of 45. However, if you have a family history of colon cancer or have any symptoms, you should start screening earlier.

Screening is important because, in many cases, colon cancer can be prevented. Polyps, which are the small growths that can lead to colon cancer, can often be removed before they become cancerous during a colonoscopy.

Regular screening can also increase the chances of catching colon cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should talk to your doctor:.

Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
Blood in your stool
Abdominal pain or cramping that doesn’t go away
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue

Conclusion

The increase in colon cancer cases in younger patients is a cause for concern. While the exact cause of this rise is still unknown, it’s important to start screening earlier and to take steps to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.

This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.