Why is colorectal cancer on the rise in younger adults?

A man in his early 30s with short dark hair and a trimmed beard sits on a couch, looking thoughtfully to the side.

Colorectal cancer (cancer in the colon or rectum) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The good news is that the number of people with this type of cancer has been going down for decades. But that drop is mostly in older adults. For people 54 and younger, colorectal cancer is on the rise.

Younger people aren’t just getting colon and rectal cancer more often. They’re also being diagnosed later, when it’s harder to treat. Because of this, more younger adults are dying from the disease. In the U.S. today, colorectal cancer is the top cause of cancer deaths in men under 50, and the second leading cause in women under 50.

Why are more younger adults being diagnosed with colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is often seen as a problem that only affects older adults. So, younger people don’t usually get screened for it. (Although the American Cancer Society now recommends starting to screen at age 45 instead of 50.) Now that colon and rectal cancer are on the rise in younger people, experts are trying to figure out why. They believe a few different things may be driving this shift, including:

1. Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle shifts may be partly to blame for rising cancer rates in younger adults. Research suggests that colorectal cancer may be linked to:

  • Diets high in red meat, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed foods

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Smoking and binge drinking

  • Obesity

The New York Times reports that, in general, these factors are more common in younger adults today than in past decades. This could be driving the increase in colorectal cancer in this age group.

2. Not knowing the signs

Many younger adults don’t know the signs of colorectal cancer, so they may not think about bringing it up to their provider. Symptoms may be brushed off or mistaken for something else. This is especially true for those without a family history of the disease.

Common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

  • Small changes in bowel movements

  • Stomach or abdominal pain

  • Losing weight without trying

  • Blood in the stool or after using the bathroom

3. Delayed screenings

When colorectal cancer isn’t caught early, it can be harder to treat. Still, there are many reasons why younger adults put off screening. Some may think they’re too young to worry about cancer, while others are afraid a colonoscopy might hurt or cost too much. These beliefs can lead people to skip screening or keep doctors from suggesting it, even when there are signs something might be wrong.

The good news is that not all tests are invasive or uncomfortable. There are simple, low-cost options (like at-home stool tests) that don’t require any prep or cause discomfort. Your provider can help you which screening test, if any, is right for you.

Taking action for your health

Regular screening is the best way to find colon or rectal cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. Unfortunately, many younger adults don’t get tested until the cancer has had time to grow or spread. If you’re due for screening or have symptoms that should be checked, don’t wait. The Carrum Health benefit provided by your employer may include colonoscopies at little to no cost to you. Register today to check your coverage.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional legal or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.



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