Colon cancer deaths rise as patients get younger

Key Points:

• Colon cancer is now the second-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., with an estimated 55,230 deaths expected this year, and is the fourth most common cancer among men and women.
• Rates of colorectal cancer are rising among younger adults under 50, despite traditional risk increasing after age 45; it is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in this younger age group.
• Regular screening, recommended for adults ages 45 to 75, is key to prevention, as it can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous; earlier screening is advised for those with certain risk factors.
• The incidence rate of colorectal cancer has decreased significantly in adults 65 and older but has increased 1.8 times among adults under 50 since 2000, with environmental factors and diet suspected as possible causes.
• Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and anemia, but many cases are asymptomatic, making screening critical for early detection.