Colorectal cancer is on the rise in younger adults: What you need to know
in Denver

Colorectal (colon) cancer is common. It is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women in the U.S. Because many colorectal cancers begin as small precancerous polyps (adenomas) that grow slowly, symptoms of the cancer often do not appear until it has progressed to a more advanced stage.

In recent years, colorectal cancer has been on the rise in young adults. The American Cancer Society reported earlier this year that 20% of colorectal cancer diagnoses in 2019 were in patients under age 55, which is about double the rate in 1995. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, estimated that in just seven years, colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer deaths in people ages 20–49. 

This surge in cases among younger adults was the impetus for the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to recommend that the age to begin routine screening for colorectal cancer be lowered from age 50 to age 45. All insurers are now covering colorectal cancer screening at this age.

Colorectal cancer is beatable, treatable and preventable. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is through regular screening. There is only one test that can prevent and detect colorectal cancer – a screening colonoscopy. This simple and safe outpatient procedure can reduce your lifetime risk of colorectal cancer by 70%.

During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist will use a long tube with a light and camera to view your entire colon to spot and potentially remove precancerous growths (polyps). For every 1% increase in a gastroenterologist’s adenoma detection rate, there is a 3% decrease in your odds of developing colorectal cancer over the next decade.

South Denver GI is Colorado’s leader in colorectal cancer screening and prevention. Our 25 gastroenterologists consistently achieve colon polyp detection rates that exceed national screening benchmarks. You are at a greater risk for developing colorectal cancer if you are obese, eat a diet rich in sugar and processed foods, are African American, have a family history of the disease or have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. Common symptoms of colorectal cancer may include abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unintentional weight loss or a change in bowel habits. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist right away.