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The good news is the overall occurrence of colorectal cancer has dropped each year since the mid-1980s. The not-so-good news is the incidence has been rising among younger adults. In fact, since the 1990s, the American Cancer Society reports the rate of colorectal cancer has more than doubled among adults younger than 50.
“There’s been fewer cases overall mainly because of increased awareness and education and more people getting screened,” says Millennium Physician Group Family Medicine Physician Nektarios Demetriou, D.O. “But we don’t know for sure what’s causing the increase among younger adults.”
Researchers have reported evidence suggests the cause is something in the environment, not biological, and some are singling out the modern diet.
“There is more and more evidence linking an unhealthy diet, specifically one high in processed meat and fat and low in fruits and vegetables, to early-onset colorectal cancer,” says Dr. Demetriou. “Processed foods are known to cause an inflammatory response, so that makes sense.”
Colonoscopies remain the gold standard for preventing colorectal cancer. The new recommendation for those without a family history is to begin colonoscopies at age 45 and not wait until 50. If you have a family history, you should be screened 10 years before that family member’s diagnosis. Despite increased education and awareness, many people are still hesitant about the procedure.
“To have fear associated with a screening procedure is very, very normal,” admits Dr. Demetriou. “Discuss those fears with your doctor, who can address your concerns and help make you feel more at ease. Especially about a screening that could easily save your life.”
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Family Medicine Physician
Millennium Physician Group
2649 Windguard Circle, Suite 101
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
813.723.1303