Young people tend to approach health concerns differently than older adults. While many Gen Zers and Millennials do focus on their physical and mental wellness, they’re still young, and the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, and cancer generally rises with age. However, recent research reveals that Gen Z and Millennials might not be as protected as previously believed. In fact, cases of colon cancer in the United States have doubled since the 1990s, particularly among those aged 20 to 49.
An Invisible Danger
Colon cancer, also referred to as colorectal, bowel, or rectal cancer depending on the tumor’s location, is often called the silent killer. This is because it can develop with little to no warning signs. By the time symptoms do show up, the cancer has usually advanced significantly.
Why Colon Cancer Is Increasing Among Young Adults
The Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC) reports that colorectal cancer ranks as the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Notably, 30% of these diagnoses occur in people under 55 years old. This makes colorectal cancer the leading cause of cancer death among men and the second leading cause among women under 50.
According to the Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC) website, individuals born after 1990 face twice the risk of developing colon cancer and four times the risk of developing rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950. Additionally, approximately 18,000 cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed annually in people under 50—that’s about 49 new cases every day.
Why More People Are Getting Colon Cancer
A European study published in the Annals of Oncology investigated the increasing rates of colon cancer among young people to uncover the causes. The research was led by Carlo La Vecchia, MD, Professor of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology at the University of Milan.
According to La Vecchia, key factors driving the rise in bowel cancer among younger individuals include overweight and obesity, along with related health issues like high blood sugar and diabetes. He also pointed to heavier alcohol consumption and decreased physical activity as contributing factors.
How Family History Affects Risk
The most significant known risk factor for colon cancer is a family history of the disease. Individuals who have immediate family members with colon cancer face two to three times the risk of developing it themselves compared to those without such a history. As a result, experts advise people with a family history of colon cancer to start screening earlier than the general population, particularly if the relative was diagnosed at a young age.
What You Should Know About Colon Cancer Survival
According to the Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC), the five-year relative survival rate is about 90% for stage 1 and stage 2 colon cancer. For stage 3, the rate drops to 71%, and for stage 4, it falls sharply to 14%. Unfortunately, younger individuals are often diagnosed at later stages because they usually aren’t eligible for routine screenings.
Since colon cancer often shows no early symptoms, many people experience signs for months before getting an accurate diagnosis. Misdiagnoses can delay crucial treatment. It’s important to remember that colon cancer typically develops over the course of about ten years.
Detecting Symptoms Early
Symptoms of cancer can differ based on where the tumor starts and other factors. However, it’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of the following signs:
- Rectal bleeding, bloody stool, or blood in the toilet after a bowel movement
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- Low energy or ongoing fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling full quickly during a meal
- Unusual stool changes, such as very dark stools or ribbon-thin stools
If you notice any of these symptoms, prompt medical evaluation is crucial.
Navigating Your Health with Confidence
“If you notice any changes in your bowel habits or experience any bleeding— even if you suspect it’s just hemorrhoids that won’t go away—make sure to get a colonoscopy,” advises Dr. Vikram Reddy, colorectal surgeon at Yale Medicine. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren’t being taken seriously by your doctor.
Ways to Lower Your Risk of Colon Cancer
For those without a family history, colon cancer screening usually starts at age 45. Some screening tests can even be done at home. To lower your overall risk, it helps to quit smoking, limit processed and red meat consumption, stay physically active, eat a fiber-rich diet, and maintain a healthy weight.
Nurturing a Healthy Body
One effective way to enhance your diet is by swapping ultra-processed foods for high-fiber options. “Protecting yourself against colorectal cancer isn’t only about steering clear of harmful foods—it’s also about focusing on what nourishes and helps your body thrive,” explained Tim Spector, a British epidemiologist and co-founder of the health company ZOE.
“Fiber does much more than aid digestion; it helps regulate bowel movements and minimizes the time harmful substances remain in contact with the colon,” Spector told Newsweek. “This is important because anything that reduces toxin buildup in the gut can lower the risk of cancer. You can think of fiber as a cleanup crew for your colon.”
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