Colon cancer is surging in younger adults and doctors are alarmed

As Colon Cancer Awareness Month draws attention to this trend, researchers are examining the forces behind the rise in early-onset CRC. At the same time, advances in genetic testing are opening new possibilities for prevention and earlier detection.

Rising Rates of Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adults

A large international study published in The Lancet Oncology found a clear increase in CRC diagnoses among younger adults. From 2013 to 2017, incidence rates rose in 27 of the 50 countries included in the analysis for people under the age of 50. Although the highest numbers continue to appear in North America and Europe, notable increases were also reported across Eastern Europe, South-Central and Southeastern Asia, and South America.

Researchers believe this global pattern reflects broad changes in daily life, including shifts in diet, reduced physical activity, urban living, and environmental exposures. Specialists emphasize that earlier screening, healthier eating habits, and stronger public education are essential to slow this trend. Without effective intervention, experts warn that early-onset CRC cases are likely to continue rising over the coming decades.

Lifestyle and Diet Linked to Increased Risk

Research increasingly points to diet as a major contributor to colorectal cancer risk. High intake of ultra-processed foods, red and processed meats, and sugary drinks has been associated with inflammation and a greater susceptibility to cancer.

One example comes from Kazakhstan, where a population study found that average meat consumption was almost double the World Cancer Research Fund's recommended limit of 500 grams per week. The same study showed that only 8.6% of participants consumed fish at recommended levels, a pattern that may contribute to nutritional imbalances linked to higher cancer risk.

Obesity is another important factor tied to CRC. Excess body fat can drive chronic inflammation and interfere with normal metabolic processes. However, researchers note that obesity's role may be more complex than it appears. An analysis of 18 studies revealed that many CRC patients experience unintended weight loss before diagnosis, suggesting that standard measures used to assess obesity-related risk may not fully capture its impact.

Genetic Factors and Inherited Cancer Syndromes

Genetics also plays a significant role in early-onset colorectal cancer. According to Dr. Alexei Tsukanov, head of the Laboratory of Genetics at the National Medical Research Center for Radiology, many younger CRC cases are linked to inherited cancer syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. These disorders are caused by mutations in tumor-suppressor genes, which sharply increase the likelihood of developing CRC at a younger age.

Despite the importance of early diagnosis, warning signs are often overlooked. Symptoms can include lasting changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and ongoing abdominal discomfort.

Dr. Tsukanov emphasizes the value of genetic testing for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer. "Identifying a hereditary mutation allows us to implement lifelong clinical monitoring and early intervention, significantly improving survival rates," he explains.

New screening technologies are also expanding detection options. Tools such as BGI Genomics' COLOTECT® Stool DNA Methylation Test identifies CRC-related genetic markers (SDC2, ADHFE1, and PPP2R5C) through stool DNA analysis, providing a non-invasive approach to identifying cancer-related changes at an earlier stage.

Screening Gaps and the Need for Public Awareness

Access to colorectal cancer screening varies widely across regions. In parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, screening programs remain uneven. Countries including Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Latvia, and Georgia have established national screening efforts, while others depend on opportunistic testing. This inconsistency leaves many cases undetected until later stages.

Education is seen as a critical step toward improving outcomes. "To improve early detection, we must educate both healthcare providers and the public about the importance of screening," says Jemma Arakelyan, an advisor at the Immune Oncology Research Institute and CEO of The Institute of Cancer and Crisis in Armenia.

Colorectal cancer is no longer confined to older populations. Younger adults are increasingly affected, with unhealthy lifestyle patterns playing a major role. Addressing this growing challenge will require coordinated action from governments, healthcare systems, and individuals to raise awareness, support healthier choices, and expand access to early screening. The urgency of the situation continues to grow.