Dr Chandrasekhar Prasad Singh, Consultant- Medical Oncology, HCG Abdur Razzaque Hospital, Ranchi.

Traditionally viewed as a condition affecting older adults, colorectal cancer is now on the rise among younger populations, with a troubling increase in cases among teenagers and young adults. This unexpected trend has sparked a wave of research and concern in the medical community, as experts seek to understand the factors contributing to the rising rates of colorectal cancer among youth.

The Alarming Statistics

Recent studies reveal a significant rise in colorectal cancer cases in individuals under the age of 50, with adolescents and young adults experiencing a particularly sharp increase. Research notes that nearly 12% of colorectal cancer diagnoses are now among those under 50—a figure that has nearly doubled in the last few decades. More concerning is that this shift includes teenagers, who were once considered to be at minimal risk for the disease.

Understanding the Symptoms Often Overlooked

One of the challenges with early detection among young people is that colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle and are often mistaken for less serious gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or hemorrhoids. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood in the stool
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

For teenagers, symptoms like these may be dismissed as dietary or stress-related, leading to delays in diagnosis.

Possible Factors Behind the Rise

While research is ongoing, certain lifestyle and genetic factors may be contributing to this increase:

• Dietary Changes: High intake of processed foods and low fiber diets can affect gut health.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Reduced physical activity may raise cancer risk.
• Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Alterations in gut bacteria, possibly due to diet and antibiotics, may increase susceptibility.
• Genetics: Conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are significant risk factors, even without a family history.

Bridging the Gap: Awareness and Early Detection

With these cases on the rise, spreading awareness among young people, parents, and healthcare providers becomes crucial. Teens and young adults experiencing persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should feel empowered to discuss their concerns with a medical professional without delay. Healthcare providers, too, need to adjust their approach and consider colorectal cancer as a possible diagnosis when evaluating younger patients with gastrointestinal complaints.

Prevention Steps for Teens and Young Adults

There are lifestyle modifications that can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer in young individuals:

1. Adopt a Healthy Diet: A diet high in fiber, fruits, vegetables and low in processed foods and red meat can support digestive health and may reduce cancer risk.
2. Increase Physical Activity: Regular exercise not only improves overall health but also reduces cancer risk. Even moderate activity, like walking, can be beneficial.
3. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco: Both are known risk factors for various cancers, including colorectal cancer. Reducing or avoiding these substances can contribute to a lower risk.
4. Stay Informed About Family History: Knowing family medical history can help young people understand their own risk factors and seek genetic counseling or early screening if necessary.

Looking Forward

The rise of colorectal cancer among teenagers is an alarming trend that demands attention from both the public and medical professionals. By staying informed, promoting healthy lifestyles, and prioritizing early detection, there is hope to reverse this trend and protect young individuals from a disease once thought to be an older adult’s concern. As awareness grows, so does the potential for prevention, early diagnosis, and, ultimately, better outcomes for younger generations facing this unexpected health challenge.