If you’re under 45 and dealing with ongoing stomach problems, it’s easy to brush them off. A lot of people think they’re too young for those symptoms to be caused by colon cancer.
But cases of colon cancer under 45 are rising fast, and younger adults are being diagnosed more often than ever before.
Ignoring symptoms or waiting too long can allow colon cancer to grow quietly. Learning the warning signs and knowing when to talk to a doctor can help protect your health and your future.
Overall, colorectal cancer rates have gone down. Doctors believe this is because more people are getting regular colonoscopies. These screenings can find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
But colon cancer under 45 is becoming more common. Since the 1990s, rates of colorectal cancer have more than doubled in adults under age 50. Even more concerning, deaths from colon cancer are also increasing in younger people.
Many of these cases are happening in adults between 18 and 35 years old. And that age group is usually years away from routine colon cancer screening.
Doctors are still learning why more young adults are getting colon cancer. While people of all races can be affected, higher increases have been seen in American Indian and Alaska Native adults, as well as White adults.
About 1 in 4 cases of colon cancer in younger adults are linked to family history or inherited conditions. These include Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
But a lack of family history isn’t a reason to skip screening. Most people diagnosed with colon cancer under 45 do not have a known risk factor.
This is why paying attention to symptoms is so important, even if you feel healthy or believe your risk is low.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin colon cancer screening at age 45. People with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier.
Screening is one of the best ways to prevent colon cancer. A colonoscopy allows doctors to look inside the colon and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. This can help stop the disease before it starts and avoid more serious treatment later.
Colon cancer can cause symptoms, even in younger adults. You should talk to a doctor if you notice:
These symptoms do not always mean cancer. Many other digestive problems can cause similar issues. Still, it’s important not to ignore them. A doctor can help find the cause and decide if testing is needed.
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Studies show that more than 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented with regular screening.
Finding colon cancer early often means easier treatment, fewer complications, and better outcomes.
Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio (GCSA) accepts most insurance plans. These include HMO, PPO, Medicare, and Medicaid. To learn more about insurance and financial policies, visit our FAQ.
Colonoscopies usually have strong insurance coverage, though some plans may include out-of-pocket costs. To help make screening more affordable, GCSA also offers CareCredit® and in-house financing options.
If you’re worried about colon cancer under 45 or have symptoms, taking action now can make a lasting difference in your health. If you live in the San Antonio area, schedule a consultation today.
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