Colorectal Cancer Stories
Colorectal cancer can start either in the colon or the rectum. It makes up about eight percent of all cancer cases in the U.S. Finding and removing polyps can prevent colorectal cancer. (NCI) It’s also on the rise for men and women under 50 years old, as many of our stories below will highlight.
Colon Cancer on the Rise in Younger Adults
A 2024 report highlights a worrying 9% increase in colorectal cancer among those under 50. Despite unclear reasons for this rise, factors like genetics, lifestyle, and obesity are considered. Surprisingly, many young patients don’t fit the typical risk profiles, suggesting other causes such as environmental factors or microbiome changes. This trend is leading to more late-stage diagnoses in young adults, emphasizing the need for awareness and early screening.
Go directly to our stories covering younger diagnoses.
Scientists are now working to uncover the causes behind this rise and develop strategies to prevent and treat colorectal cancer in younger age groups. As Dr. Kimmie Ng, director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, said, “Research into what the underlying causes are and what the risk factors are, is so important. We need to identify those young people who are at high risk and target them for earlier screening.” Read our interview with Dr. Ng.
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Colorectal Cancer 101
Learn more with our guide on colorectal cancer, a disease that affects the colon or rectum. In this colorectal cancer overview article, we touch on crucial aspects such as screening, stages, treatment options, and patient stories. Through these stories, you’ll discover valuable insights from the very people who have been there.
Patient Stories
Explore below for colorectal cancer stories from our community of patients and thrivers who share their experiences with colon and rectal cancer diagnoses and treatments.
Colon Cancer Stories
Rectal Cancer Stories
Colorectal Cancer Stories
Patients In Their 30s and 40s Share Their Earliest Symptoms
In 2024, a concerning trend emerged: colon cancer incidence is rising among adults under 50, particularly those between 30 and 40 years old. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that this demographic is the only one to experience an increase in overall cancer incidence (number of new cases in a year for every 100K people) from 1995 to 2020. Colorectal cancer, once the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths for people under 50, has now become the leading cause for men and the second for women.
Regular screenings for colorectal cancer are crucial for early detection. The most common screening method is a colonoscopy, which allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum for polyps or signs of cancer.
