The incidence of colorectal cancer in young adults is increasing, causing alarm among doctors and cancer researchers alike. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reported that 20% of patients diagnosed in 2019 were under the age of 55. This is twice the rate in 1995. Each year, the rate of advanced colorectal cancer diagnoses among people under age 50 increased by about 3%.
Colorectal cancer morbidity and mortality rates are decreasing across the population due to widespread screening. The number of infections is increasing among patients under the age of 50, who are less likely to be screened.
It is not entirely clear why the incidence of colorectal cancer and other forms of cancer is increasing among young people in the United States. Possible causes include changes in diet, environment, and gut microbiome.
What is clear is that lifestyle modifications can help reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer, or any cancer for that matter.
Know the signs of colorectal cancer and get tested
Starting at the age of 45, you need to be screened for colorectal cancer.If detected early, before it spreads, locally Colorectal cancer is highly treatable, with a 5-year relative survival rate of 91%.
If colorectal cancer has already developed, a colonoscopy cannot be done. Although it has long been a preventive measure, it is a diagnostic one. Tell your provider if you have any of the following symptoms:
- blood inside stool
- Changes in bowel movements that do not improve
- constipation
- Early satiety (satiety)
- sudden weight loss
- abdominal pain or cramps
- rectal pain
- fatigue and weakness
Although these may simply be caused by hemorrhoids, it is important to rule out colorectal cancer. “Don't ignore any symptoms, no matter your age or the date of your last colonoscopy. Don't assume there's nothing. Get tested.” David Hanna, D.O.is a fellowship-trained gastroenterologist with Riverside Gastroenterologists.
If colorectal cancer runs in your family, you should be tested at age 40 or 10 years before the age your loved one was diagnosed (whichever comes first). People with known inherited colorectal cancer-related syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome, may need to be screened earlier.
Patients with gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease or inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis, may need more frequent colorectal cancer screening tests.
There are many ways to get tested for colon cancer, but colonoscopy is currently the gold standard. This test is both diagnostic and preventive because it allows doctors to remove polyps before they become cancerous. “One of the most rewarding things about being a gastroenterologist is being able to help prevent something from happening in the first place,” Dr. Hanna says.
Maintain a healthy diet to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer
A healthy lifestyle does not guarantee good health and longevity. Everyone has a different level of risk, depending on factors such as environment and family history. However, making healthy lifestyle choices will reduce your personal risk factors for a cancer diagnosis and ensure the best outcome if cancer occurs.
A healthy diet and weight reduce your risk of developing cancer, including colorectal cancer. “Obesity increases the risk of many cancers,” says Dr. Hanna.
The Standard American Diet (SAD), which consists of large amounts of red meat and highly processed foods, exacerbates inflammation. Studies have shown that processed meats, such as hot dogs and deli meats, are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. “We know that other countries with less access to meat and more plant-based diets have fewer polyps in their populations,” Dr. Hanna says.
In place of the standard American diet, Dr. Hanna recommends eating:
- A Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and low fats such as fish and poultry.
- Limit (or eliminate) processed foods with long ingredient lists.
- Avoid foods that contain preservatives such as nitrates, which have been linked to cancer in studies.
- Drink plenty of water (8-10 glasses a day) to avoid constipation.
Medically assisted weight loss interventions, such as bariatric surgery and medications such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, may be options for eligible patients who may benefit. Examples of medications include Ozempic/Libersus/Wygovi, Munjaro/Seppbound, Vietta/Bidureon, Victoza/Saxenda, and Trulicity. Medical weight loss treatment should involve lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and exercise.
Exercise can reduce risk of colorectal cancer
Regular exercise has many health benefits, including lowering your risk of cancer. Dr. Hanna recommends that he do 30 minutes of exercise five to six days a week. If that's difficult, add 5 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise to your daily routine. Consistency is key and you can build from there.
It is ideal to combine cardiovascular training with weight training. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or circuit training workouts are especially helpful for weight loss. “Alternating between moderate and vigorous paces during exercise increases your metabolic rate, allowing for more effective weight loss,” says Dr. Hanna.
Eliminate smoking and reduce or eliminate alcohol intake
Smoking, vaping, and moderate to heavy alcohol use all increase inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of cancer, including colorectal cancer.
Quitting habits like smoking and drinking is not a feat that most people can accomplish alone. Talk to your health care provider about support with cognitive behavioral therapy, group programs, and even smoking cessation medications like Wellbutrin.
There is no magic elixir to restore health. Cancer diagnosis has multiple causes, particularly genetic predisposition. Still, prioritizing your physical health has many positive outcomes, including reducing your risk of colorectal cancer.
Your primary care provider is essential to maintaining your health and well-being. If you notice any signs or symptoms, don't delay in contacting us for diagnosis. Please make an appointment today.
