Colorectal Cancer Rates Rising Among Young Americans
According to the American Cancer Society, the rates of colorectal cancer are on the rise among Americans under the age of 55. In fact, colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50 and the second leading cause of cancer death in women in the same age group.
The top warning signs of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits, weight loss, fatigue, blood in the stool, and abdominal pain. However, only 20% of Americans aged 45-59 are receiving colon cancer screenings.
Factors such as weight, smoking, physical activity, diet, and alcohol use can affect the risk for developing colorectal cancer. That’s why the American Cancer Society recommends regular screenings starting at age 45, and even earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer.
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, and improving diet can all help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. For more information on prevention and detection, resources are available at YourColonIs45.org.
For those looking for more information on colon cancer detection and diagnosis, they can visit cancer.org. It’s important to stay informed and proactive when it comes to colorectal cancer, as early detection can significantly improve outcomes.
