Did you know?! 45 Is the New 50 for Colorectal Cancer Screening

Women of Asian ethnicity talking with a female doctor wearing scrubs and looking at a iPad of medical records

No one knows why colorectal cancer rates are increasing in young people. Sedentary lifestyle, overweight and obesity concerns, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption have all been linked to the disease. Low-fiber, high-fat diets, or diets high in processed meats, and other environmental factors also play a role. Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps is of course a risk factor. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease are also risk factors.

In early 2023, the American Cancer Society (ACS) reported that 20% of diagnoses in 2019 were in patients under the age of 55. This is about double the rate from 1995. Rates of advanced disease increased by approximately 3% annually in individuals younger than 50. In 2021 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended that most Americans be screened for colorectal cancer at age 45. This is five years earlier than previously recommended. The public is encouraged to continue with screenings periodically until age 75.

At the same time, while colorectal cancer is still prevalent in people over 65, the incidence in that group is decreasing. Older individuals are less likely than those younger than 50 to be diagnosed with advanced stages of the disease. Young people, like everyone else, must communicate with their doctor.

Recognize the signs and symptoms to report to your doctor:

Rectal bleeding: includes blood from the rectum, blood in the stool, or blood in the toilet after a bowel movement.
Unusual stools: Look for any changes in the way your stool looks. Keep a close eye on dark or black stools. This may indicate bleeding from a tumor. Consult your doctor if you have stool that is narrow, thin or ribbon-like. This may signal that a tumor is obstructing your bowels or rectum.
Any changes in bowel movements: Look for loose stool (diarrhea) or constipation (less than three bowel movements a week), particularly if the changes last two weeks or more.
Low energy or tiredness could be due to anemia from blood loss. If you are a young woman with chronic anemia. Don’t assume it is due to menstrual bleeding. It is always recommended to explore other causes.

If anyone has any change in their bowel habits, if they have any bleeding, or have low energy— get a colonoscopy.