Colorectal Cancer Is On The Rise In Young People

Colorectal Cancer is Rising in Young Adults: What You Need to Know | Duly Noted Podcast In this episode of Duly Noted: A Health and Care Podcast, host Cheryl Martin speaks with Dr. Jennie Ng, a gastroenterologist at Duly Health and Care, about the increasing rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults. While overall cases of colon and rectal cancer have declined in the U.S., diagnoses in adults under 55 have risen by 11-20% in recent decades. Even more concerning, many of these cases are detected in the later stages, making early detection and screening more critical than ever. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women, yet many people remain unaware of the risk factors and warning signs. Dr. Ng explains how genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to the rise in cases, emphasizing that colorectal cancer is highly preventable when caught early. Who is at Risk? While anyone can develop colorectal cancer, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include: • A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis • A history of smoking or abdominal radiation therapy • Genetic syndromes, including Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis Beyond these known risks, lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, and lack of exercise are also being studied as possible contributors to the rise in younger cases. Colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making routine screening essential. However, warning signs can include: • Blood in the stool • Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea • Unexplained weight loss • New or persistent abdominal pain • Anemia (low red blood cell count) 👉 If you found this episode helpful, please like, comment, and share with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe for more discussions on health and care: https://bit.ly/3Cqco4Q Many younger patients dismiss these symptoms or assume they are caused by less serious conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis. Dr. Ng urges anyone experiencing red flag symptoms to speak with their doctor as soon as possible. Dr. Jennie Ng is a highly regarded gastroenterologist at Duly Health and Care, specializing in colorectal cancer screening, digestive disorders, and advanced endoscopic procedures. With over two decades of experience, she has dedicated her career to helping patients navigate their gastrointestinal health with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. Dr. Ng sees patients at multiple locations, including Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Hinsdale, Lisle, and Oakbrook Terrace, ensuring accessible, high-quality care across the region. Learn more about Dr. Ung and schedule an appointment here: https://bit.ly/425T5fd Screening is one of the most powerful tools for both detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. Since most colon cancers begin as polyps, a colonoscopy can remove precancerous growths before they turn into cancer. Previously, colorectal cancer screening was recommended starting at age 50, but due to rising cases in younger populations, guidelines have now lowered the recommended age to 45. For individuals with risk factors, screening may need to begin even earlier. For many, fear or misconceptions about the procedure prevent them from getting screened. Dr. Ng reassures patients that a colonoscopy is a simple, painless procedure performed under sedation. Using a thin, flexible scope, doctors examine the colon for abnormalities and remove polyps on the spot, preventing potential cancers from forming. The process takes about 15-20 minutes, and most patients go home the same day. While the idea of bowel prep may deter some, Dr. Ng emphasizes that preparation is manageable and should not be a barrier to receiving this life-saving test. For those hesitant about a colonoscopy, other tests are available, including: • Stool-based tests (FIT, Cologuard) – These detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA in stool samples but require more frequent testing. • CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) – A less invasive imaging test that still requires bowel prep. However, Dr. Ng notes that if these tests come back positive, a colonoscopy will still be needed to confirm results and remove any detected polyps. Ultimately, the best screening test is the one you are willing to complete—but colonoscopy remains the gold standard for detection and prevention. Many patients hesitate to get screened due to fear, misinformation, or financial concerns. Dr. Ng addresses common worries, such as the risks of bleeding, perforation, and sedation, explaining that complications are extremely rare. She also encourages open conversations with healthcare providers to ensure patients understand why screening is essential and what options are available.