Alarming Increase in Early-Onset Colon Cancer
Colon cancer rates have been steadily dropping in people over 55—likely due to early screening methods that can catch it in its pre-cancerous stage.
But in people under 55, it’s a different story.
In recent years, colon cancer has surged in this age group—growing at a rate of about 1 to 2 percent per year.
What’s worse, the younger you’re diagnosed, the more aggressive the cancer tends to be.
What’s driving this alarming increase?
Using an extensive database, researchers evaluated the impact of 11 factors on early-onset colorectal cancer.
One factor stuck out like a sore thumb.
They found that being overweight or obese led to a stunning 29 percent increased risk of early-onset colon cancer.
Interestingly, this connection follows the increase in overweight and obesity in the general population.
This information highlights two things.
- First, it’s critical to prioritize reaching a healthy weight.
Research shows that being overweight or obese increases your risk of 12 other types of cancer in addition to colon cancer.
I shared seven tips for losing weight and keeping it off with readers earlier this year. Click here to check those out.
- Second, we also need to prioritize early screening.
My preferred method for low risk people is an at-home stool test called Cologuard.
If this test is positive, then I recommend getting a colonoscopy and staying vigilant with ongoing screening until the test becomes negative.
P.S. Research ties specific nutrients to a reduced risk of cancer. CLICK HERE for the details.
SOURCE:
Chen, J., Terry, M. B., Dalerba, P., Hur, C., Hu, J., & Yang, W. (2024). Environmental drivers of the rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer in the United States. International Journal of Cancer, 154(11), 1930-1939. doi. org /10. 1002/ijc.34887
