Colorectal Cancer Rates Continue to Climb in Young Adults
Colonoscopy recommended by age 45
3/15/2024
Renee Schessler, PA-C, Gastroenterology with Aspirus Health
Incidence rates of
colorectal cancer continue to climb in young adults, according to a recent
report published by Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
The American Cancer
Society (ACS) further found that younger adults are first discovering their
colorectal cancer in advanced stages. Many young people are discovering
life-threatening advanced colorectal cancer that could have been prevented with
earlier detection.
Renee
Schessler, PA-C, Gastroenterology with Aspirus Health, confirms the trend.
“We’re seeing a lot of increased colorectal cancer, especially in younger and
younger people.”
“The best way to
catch colorectal cancer is by having a colonoscopy done,” she explains.
The U.S. Preventive
Services Task Force issued a new recommendation in 2021 that people of
average risk should have a colonoscopy at age 45, based on this trend of
growing cases among younger adults. But according to the ACS, more than 1 in 3
adults aged 45 and older still have not been screened.
Schessler says, “a
colonoscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure.”
Since colorectal
cancer continues to strike adults who are younger and younger, if someone
younger than age 45 is experiencing symptoms consistent with colorectal cancer,
they should discuss with their primary care provider or gastroenterologist
without delay. “A lot of times colorectal cancer can be asymptomatic, but there
are some things to watch out for,” says Schessler. These red flags may include:
- A change in bowel
habits
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal bloating
and/or discomfort
Colorectal cancer is
now the third leading cause of cancer-related death in America.
Having a yearly
wellness exam is imperative as your family medicine provider will keep you on
track with all necessary screenings, including colonoscopies. To find a
provider near you, visit www.aspirus.org/find-a-provider.
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