Too young for colorectal cancer? Here’s what a doctor says are common early warning signs

Over the past few decades, trends in colorectal cancer diagnoses have changed. While the incidence rate of colorectal cancer for people over the age of 50 has decreased, people under the age of 50 are getting diagnosed more worldwide. Even more worrisome is the fact that young people with colorectal cancer are usually diagnosed with advanced stage disease.

Earlier this year, a study done by the American Cancer Society showed colorectal cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related death among men and women under the age of 50. This makes recognizing and catching symptoms early especially important.

How can I detect colorectal cancer early?

The good news is that colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers with effective screening, so it can be detected earlier and treated more easily (or sometimes prevented entirely). Because of the rise in colorectal cancer in people under age 50—also known as young or early-onset colorectal cancer—screening recommendations have been updated in recent years to start screening earlier.

As of 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends routine screening for colorectal cancer start at age 45 for adults of average risk. For people at increased risk—such as those with cancer that runs in the family or those with inflammatory bowel disease—screening should begin earlier.

Colonoscopies give the opportunity to find precancerous polyps (growths on the wall of the large intestine or rectum) and remove them then and there, before cancer develops, as well as to detect already-existing cancers that would then be treated. There are also other, noninvasive screening options, including kits that test stool samples you provide from the comfort of your home (they do not detect polyps, and any abnormal results would need to be followed up with a colonoscopy). You should discuss your personal risk factors with your health care provider to determine the best screening strategy and timing for you.

What are common symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Even with available screening methods, most early-onset colorectal cancers are still found only after a patient develops symptoms. This makes awareness of early warning signs especially critical. Common symptoms include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in or on the stool
• Unexplained iron-deficiency anemia
• Abdominal pain that doesn’t go away
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss
• Getting full faster or loss of appetite

In younger adults, there’s a risk these symptoms may be ignored or dismissed without getting checked out—a delay that can be costly.

When should I consult a health care provider?

If you have any of the above symptoms lasting for more than a few weeks, you should contact a health care provider. People who have a family history of colorectal cancer should be especially aware of new or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients with an increased risk of colorectal cancer should follow specific, risk-based screening plans with their health care provider rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

How can I reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?

In addition to routine screening, prevention is also important. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a fiber-rich diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, limiting red and processed meats, avoiding smoking and vaping, limiting alcohol and keeping an active lifestyle are all ways to reduce your risk. Chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and Type 2 diabetes should be carefully managed, and being aware of family medical history is important.

Research is ongoing to better understand how environmental exposures and lifestyle habits may contribute to the rise of early-onset colorectal cancer. As we continue to find the answers, stay up to date with routine screening—whether it’s a colonoscopy or stool-based test—and be aware of symptoms so you can advocate for your health.