Rates of Colorectal Cancer Rising in Younger People
3/3/2026
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the U.S. and the statistics on the rates by age have surprised the medical community. Between 2012 and 2021, more colorectal cancer cases have been identified in adults under 50 each year while the rates for adults 50 and older have been going down over the same period. The American Cancer Society estimates about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer and 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer will be found in 2025.
General surgeon C. Okechi Otondi, M.D., says colorectal cancer screening is a critical tool to fight the disease, because precancerous growths can be detected and removed before they develop into cancer. The American Cancer Society and US Preventive Services task force both recommend the age to start screening for colorectal cancers is 45 for those at average risk.
For patients at higher risk, their physician may advise having an initial screening before age 45 or more frequent screening. These risk factors include:
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or of certain types of polyps
- A personal history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- A history of radiation in the abdomen or pelvis, in treatment of previous cancer(s)
- A genetic and hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
In addition to colonoscopy, the most commonly known screening, several types of tests can screen for colorectal cancer. Fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy and DNA stool test are also used.
“Studies show that we are doing a better job of screening for and removing polyps before they become cancerous, but the overall lifestyle and diet choices are driving up the risk and incidence of these cancers in younger Americans,” says Dr. Otondi.
Dr. Otondi says that while screenings are important, there are certain lifestyle factors you can manage to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer. These include maintaining a healthy body weight; keeping your Type 2 diabetes in check; reducing the amount of red meat and processed meats in your diet; do not smoke; and limit your alcohol intake. Just as with heart health, staying active and maintaining a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and limiting red meats and sugary drinks, may lower your risk of colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy screening may be a covered wellness test under your insurance plan – and most plans cover a colonoscopy completely as a follow-up test or diagnostic tool.
If you have a family history of colon cancer, or have reached age 45 or more, talk with your primary care provider to see if it’s time for you to begin screening, determine which test is right for you and how frequently you should be screened. If you need help finding a provider, visit Navarro-Docs.com.
Sources:
American Cancer Society
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
NIH: National Cancer Institute
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