When Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman died of colon cancer in 2020, it was hard for many people to process. After all, Boseman was only 43. Unfortunately, his death was not an anomaly. According to the Colon Cancer Coalition, 13% of people diagnosed with colon cancer are younger than 50, a percentage that continues to increase. Another sobering stat: Each day, 56 people 46 and younger are diagnosed with colon cancer. Dr. Hector Gonzalez, MD, MPH, a board-certified gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Plantation, Florida, says that there are several reasons why colon cancer rates are rising in people 45 and younger: a combination of lifestyle, environmental and genetic factors. “While approximately 25% of early-onset cases are linked to hereditary syndromes—most commonly Lynch syndrome [a condition that increases the risk of many types of cancer]—the majority of young patients do not have a family history or identifiable genetic predisposition,” he says.
Dr. Gonzalez says that rising rates of obesity, physical inactivity and changes in the gut microbiome due to not getting enough fiber and overconsuming processed meats, refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages are all contributing factors to the rise in colon cancer diagnosis among adults 45 and younger.To his point, scientific research shows that obesity is a strong risk factor for colon and rectal cancer. Additionally, scientific research shows a connection between a diet high in processed meats (like sausages, bacon, ham and salami) and an increased risk of colon cancer. Ditto when it comes to regularly consuming sugar-sweetened beverages.
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How To Lower Your Risk
Both doctors say that not skipping colonoscopies is crucial for catching colon cancer early and is especially important for those who are at higher risk of colon cancer. Dr. Lopez warns that anyone with a family history of colon cancer or who has an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, is at a higher risk of getting colon cancer. As previously mentioned, Lynch syndrome also increases the risk of colon cancer.“Colon cancer screening for average-risk individuals is currently recommended starting at age 45,” Dr. Khan shares, adding that those who are higher risk should get colon cancer screenings starting at 40.
If you’ve never had a colonoscopy before, you may be hesitant to get one. But it’s nothing to be afraid of. The day before your colonoscopy, you must only consume clear liquids, Dr. Khan says. Once you get to the hospital or clinic, you’re given anesthesia or sedation before the procedure.
In addition to getting a colonoscopy at the age recommended based on your risk, Dr. Lopez says that it’s important to tell your doctor about any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. “Colon cancer can be difficult to diagnose. If you are having bleeding with bowel movements, unexplained weight loss, new difficulties passing stool, narrower-than-usual stools or persistent abdominal discomfort, talk to your primary care physician about a referral for a colonoscopy. Early-stage colon cancer can be nearly impossible to diagnose by other means,” she says.
Focus on what you can control and do to lower your risk and see your doctor if you’re experiencing anything that’s not normal for you. With these prevention and early detection tips in mind, you can rest assured knowing that you are doing everything you can to lower your risk.
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Sources:
Dr. Hector Gonzalez, MD, MPH, board-certified gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Plantation, FloridaDr. Kerri E. Lopez, MD, colon and rectal surgeon at the University of Maryland Medical Center and an assistant professor of surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine Read More Details
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