UCI Health expert seeing increased frequency of colorectal cancer in younger adult patients

UCI Health expert seeing increased frequency of colorectal cancer in younger adult patients

IN THE NEWS:Colorectal cancer is estimated to become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States by 2040, among younger adults ages 20 to 49.

"The rise in young-onset colorectal cancer correlates with a doubling of the prevalence of childhood obesity over the last 30 years, now affecting 20% of those under age 20," said Dr. William Karnes, a gastroenterologist and director of high-risk colorectal cancer services at the UCI Health Digestive Health Institute, who recently spoke with CNN Health about the issue.

"However, other factors may exist," he said, adding that he has noticed "an increasing frequency of being shocked" by discoveries of colorectal cancer in his younger patients.

Genetics may also play a role. Lynch syndrome is the most common cause of hereditary colorectal cancer, causing about 4,200 cases in the US per year. People with Lynch syndrome are more likely to get cancers at a younger age, before 50, Karnes said.

However, he added "it is unlikely" that there has been an increase in the genetic mutations that raise the risk of colorectal cancer, "although, as expected, the percentage of colorectal cancers caused by such mutations, e.g., Lynch syndrome, is more common in people with young-onset colorectal cancer."

The American Cancer Society now recommends that colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 45.

"It's important for people to know that regular physical exams and cancer screenings improve their odds for preventing cancer altogether or catching it in its earliest stages," said Karnes.

Read more:

• Sounding the alarm on Lynch syndrome›