Know the Facts
- Among adults under 50, colorectal cancer is now the #1 cause of cancer death in men and the #2 cause in women. This is a significant change from its 4th-place ranking in 1998.
- The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, 1 in 5 colorectal cancer patients are 20-54 years old in the United States.
- If you were born between 1981 and 1996, you face twice the risk of colorectal cancer as compared to people born in 1950.
- The NIH expects the incidence of early-age onset (EAO) CRC — diagnoses under age 50 — to increase by more than 140% by 2030.
- Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. It is the only method that allows for identifying and removing precancerous polyps in the same setting.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is anything that raises your chances of getting a disease, such as colon cancer. However, having a risk factor does not mean that you will get the disease. It’s essential to be aware of the risk factors and understand which you can control and which you cannot.
You’re In Control
Many lifestyle-related factors have been linked to colorectal cancer. More than half of all colorectal cancers are linked to risk factors that can be changed. The most common risk factors you can control are:
- Being overweight or obese
- Diabetes (Type 2)
- Dietary Habits
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Exercise
You Cannot Change
While you can’t change your genetics, it may be possible to lower your risk of developing colon cancer by being aware of how these factors can affect your level of risk and discussing your family health history with your doctor.
- Age
- Racial and ethnic background
- Sex at birth
- A personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
- A family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps
- Having an inherited syndrome, such as Lynch syndrome
To learn more about this disease, you are encouraged to view our colon cancer webpage.
Summary
Colon cancer is one of the more treatable cancers. You can be cured, especially if you catch it early. When colon cancer is detected in a localized stage and has not spread outside of the colon or rectum, the 5-year survival rate is 91%.
Lower your risk. Take control of the risk factors you can change by eating healthier, less processed foods, limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, and exercising regularly.
Additionally, it’s essential to be aware of your family health history, not ignore digestive symptoms, and discuss these topics with your doctor when applicable.
Understanding Your Digestive Health
When thinking about their gut health, young adults should not have the mindset that they are invincible and that any information needed is available online. While the Internet and social media can be great resources, it’s essential to be cautious when researching health information. Here are a few reasons why:
- Misinformation Minefield: The internet is full of information, but it’s not all accurate or up-to-date. A Google search might lead you to outdated information, scare tactics, or websites pushing miracle cures.
- Self-Diagnosis Danger Zone: Symptoms can be confusing and overlap across different conditions. Trying to diagnose yourself based on a web search can be misleading and lead you down the wrong treatment path. For example, hemorrhoids often cause rectal bleeding, but other, more serious causes can only be determined by a doctor.
- Delayed Diagnosis Trap: Some digestive problems require early diagnosis for effective treatment. Relying on Dr. Google for digestive symptoms can cause delays in seeking professional help, potentially worsening the condition.
So, what should young adults do instead?
- Use the internet as a starting point: Do some general searches about digestive health to better understand common issues and how diet and lifestyle can affect them.
- Seek professional guidance: Don’t hesitate to mention bowel problems to friends and family, let alone doctors. A gastroenterologist can properly diagnose the issue, recommend the right treatment plan, and provide personalized advice for managing your digestive health.
- Look for reputable sources: If you use the internet for further research, stick to trustworthy websites from health organizations, medical institutions, or government health agencies.
Remember, if you experience persistent digestive problems, it’s always best to consult a GI doctor. The Internet can be a helpful tool, but it shouldn’t replace professional medical advice. For proper gut health, it’s best to consult a real doctor!
If you’re concerned about your digestive health, you can schedule an appointment online or call our office at 806-696-4440.
