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Colorectal cancer is generally associated with individuals over the age of 50. However, emerging research and clinical evidence show a rising trend in diagnoses among young adults. Alarmingly, approximately 1 in 10 new cases now occur in individuals aged 50 or younger. This shift has brought attention to early-onset colorectal cancer and the importance of increased awareness, especially for those with genetic risk factors or concerning symptoms.
What Is Colorectal Cancer and How Does It Affect Young Adults?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as benign polyps that eventually turn cancerous. Although previously rare in young individuals, incidence rates have been steadily increasing since the 1990s.
Increasing Incidence Among Youth
More young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer today than ever before. This increase is partly attributed to changes in diet, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity.
Common Symptoms in Young Adults
Young adults with colorectal cancer may experience symptoms such as blood in the stool, chronic constipation or diarrhoea, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are often misattributed to less serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or haemorrhoids, delaying diagnosis.
Impact on Quality of Life
Because diagnosis often occurs at later stages in young adults, treatment can be more aggressive, and the long-term impacts may be greater.
How Does Colorectal Cancer Occur in Young Adults?
The causes of early-onset colorectal cancer are complex and multifactorial. While genetics play a role in some cases, lifestyle and environmental exposures are increasingly recognised contributors.
Diet and Nutrition
Diets high in red meat, processed foods, and low in fibre have been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Processed meats are particularly associated with carcinogenic compounds.
Obesity and Inactivity
Obesity increases inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which may promote cancer development. A sedentary lifestyle exacerbates these risks.
Genetic Mutations
Some young adults inherit genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which increase colorectal cancer risk.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease lead to chronic inflammation in the colon, increasing cancer risk over time.
Smoking and Alcohol
Long-term smoking and heavy alcohol consumption have also been associated with early-onset colorectal cancer.
Gut Microbiome Imbalance
An unhealthy gut microbiome, influenced by diet and antibiotics, may promote inflammation and cellular changes that lead to cancer.
What Are the Long-Term Health Risks for Young Adults with Colorectal Cancer?
A diagnosis of colorectal cancer in young adulthood presents unique long-term challenges. Beyond treatment, patients often face enduring physical and emotional consequences.
Higher Risk of Recurrence
Colorectal cancer survivors, particularly those diagnosed at a young age, are at increased risk for recurrence and require regular follow-up.
Chronic Fatigue
Treatment can result in persistent fatigue, which impacts work, education, and social life.
Bowel Dysfunction
Surgical and radiation treatments may cause lasting bowel issues such as constipation, diarrhea, or incontinence.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Chemotherapy can lead to nerve damage, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet.
Long-Term Mortality Risk
Late-stage diagnoses and complications can increase mortality risk. However, early detection significantly improves prognosis.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-treatment is essential for reducing the risk of recurrence and managing long-term symptoms.
What Are the Treatment Options for Young Adults with Colorectal Cancer?
Treatment for colorectal cancer in young adults often mirrors that in older populations but may be more intensive depending on the stage of the disease and personal health factors.
Surgery
Surgical resection of the tumour and nearby lymph nodes is typically the first line of treatment. In some cases, a colostomy may be required.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to reduce tumour size or eliminate residual cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
This is often used for rectal cancer to shrink tumours before surgery or reduce recurrence risk after surgery.
Immunotherapy
Emerging treatments include immune checkpoint inhibitors, particularly in tumours with specific genetic markers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is colorectal cancer becoming more common in young adults?
While the exact cause is unclear, increasing obesity, poor diet, inactivity, and environmental factors are believed to contribute.
2. What age should I start screening if I have a family history?
If you have a first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you may need to start screening at age 40 or even earlier, depending on your doctor's advice.
3. Can lifestyle changes reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?
Yes. Eating a fibre-rich diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol can lower your risk.
4. What are the survival rates for young adults with colorectal cancer?
When detected early, survival rates are high. However, late-stage diagnoses in young adults may reduce outcomes, underscoring the importance of awareness and screening.
5. Are young adults less likely to get screened for colorectal cancer?
Yes, young adults often delay seeking medical advice, mistakenly believing they’re too young, which may lead to later diagnosis.
Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
The rising number of colorectal cancer cases in young adults is a concerning trend that demands attention. While age was once considered a protective factor, more young people are now facing the reality of a cancer diagnosis. Understanding the early signs and symptoms, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and prioritising regular screening are essential steps in reducing risk.
Do not wait—book your appointment today and start your journey toward better health. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. You may also book an appointment via our website or download the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
