ATLANTA — Colorectal cancer—which affects the colon and rectum—is now the leading cause of cancer death for Americans under 50. According to a report from the American Cancer Society, the disease has climbed from the fifth-deadliest cancer for this age group in 1990 to the top spot by 2023.
This shift occurred even as the overall cancer death rate for people under 50 dropped by 44% between 1990 and 2023. While advancements in science and treatment have helped lower death rates for cancers like lung and breast cancer, colorectal cancer death rates have continued to rise.
Trends in New Cases and Deaths
Since the 1990s, the number of colorectal cancer cases diagnosed in people under 50 has increased by approximately 2% every year. Health data shows that cases have spiked most significantly among 20- to 30-year-olds.
The impact of the disease also varies by gender. Colorectal cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer death for men under 50. For women in the same age group, it is the second leading cause of cancer death, trailing only breast cancer.
Medical experts noted that 60% to 70% of cases in younger patients are caught at a late stage, when the disease is harder to treat. These late-stage discoveries contribute to lower survival rates for this age group.
Changes in Screening and Research
Health officials recently lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 to help catch the disease earlier. Doctors updated these guidelines because of the rising number of cases in younger people.
Researchers are currently investigating several factors that may be contributing to the rise in cases among younger people. Areas of study include genetics, lifestyle, and diet. Scientists are also exploring whether environmental factors, such as exposure to antibiotics or microplastics, play a role in the rising number of cases.
