March 31, 2026
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and there’s an important trend doctors want people to know about: colon cancer is being diagnosed more often in younger adults.
For decades, colorectal cancer was considered a disease that mainly affected people over 50. Yet today, colorectal cancer cases are increasing in people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50.
“While most cases of colon cancer still occur in older adults, the shift toward younger patients has prompted a growing call for awareness,” says Laura Greco, MD, colorectal surgeon at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. “Many people assume they’re too young to worry about colorectal cancer, but the numbers tell a different story.”
Overall cancer death rates in people younger than 50 have dropped by 44% since 1990. Colorectal cancer is a notable exception.
While researchers don’t yet have a single clear explanation for the rise in early-onset cases, they believe several factors may be contributing, including:
• Diets high in ultra-processed foods
• Low fiber intake
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyles
• Changes in the gut microbiome
• Possible links to antibiotic use
Some studies have found that diets high in ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of precancerous polyps, especially in women. These polyps can develop into cancer over time if they’re not found and removed.
“While we’re still learning why rates are rising in younger adults, we know that diet, physical activity and overall gut health play a role. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference over time,” says Dr. Greco.
Experts also emphasize that while these factors may raise risk, colorectal cancer is complex, and not every case has a clear cause.
Average-risk adults are advised to begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. This can include:
• A colonoscopy every 10 years, or
• Stool-based tests annually or every three years, depending on the test.
People with certain risk factors may need to start earlier, including those with:
• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Inflammatory bowel disease.
• Certain genetic conditions.
“Knowing your family history is key to determining when to start screening. For example, if a parent was diagnosed with colon cancer, you may need to begin colonoscopies 10 years earlier than their diagnosis or at age 40, whichever comes first. Talking with your doctor can help create the right screening plan for you,” says Samuel Giordano, MD, a gastroenterologist at Cooper University Health Care.
There are several colon cancer screening options available, including at-home tests that use stool samples. However, colonoscopy remains the gold standard. The advantage of a colonoscopy is that it provides definitive results, and if polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure – preventing cancer on the spot.
“The advantage a colonoscopy has over the stool-based testing is that colonoscopy is the only preventative screening. Because every colon cancer starts as a polyp, getting a colonoscopy can both detect and prevent colon cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they have a chance to progress,” says Dr Giordano.
Early-stage colon cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why screening is so important.
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
• Persistent diarrhea or constipation
• Changes in bowel habits
• Discomfort or the urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating
• Blood in the stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Change in appetite
“Many younger patients may notice abdominal cramping or changes in bowel habits and might think it’s just part of everyday digestion. But if these symptoms don’t go away, they need prompt evaluation. It’s always better to get checked and be reassured than to wait,” Dr. Giordano says.
While not all cases of colorectal cancer are preventable, healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce your risk:
• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fiber
• Limit ultra-processed meat
• Limit red meat
• Stay physically active
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid tobacco
• Limit alcohol
• Stay up to date with screening
“Many people feel hesitant about screening because they’re unsure what to expect. Our gastrointestinal team is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable experience from start to finish. The most important step is simply starting the conversation with your doctor,” Dr. Giordano says.
Experts note that lifestyle changes, combined with screening, can provide the greatest protection.
“Although rates are rising, colorectal cancer remains one of the most preventable cancers at any age,” Dr. Greco says. “Regular screening can detect colon cancer and, when cancer is found early, it is often highly treatable.”
If you’re 45 or older, talk to your doctor about colorectal cancer screening. If you have a family history of colon cancer or are unsure when you’re due for your next screening, our team can help guide you. Call 856.536.1129 to make an appointment.
If you are uninsured or underinsured, the MD Anderson at Cooper Cancer Outreach, Education and Screening Program can help. We can provide qualified individuals with free cancer screening services including colon, breast, prostate, lung, skin and cervical cancer screenings. For more information, call 856.968.7308 and talk to a member of our team.
