Aug 18, 2025
Aarushi BhaduryFor men under 50, colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. For women in the same age group, it is now the second-leading cause, right after breast cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
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This is a major change from the 1990s, when this type of cancer ranked fourth for both young men and women.
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This isn't just happening in the U.S. Doctors are seeing a similar rise in cases in other parts of the world, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia.
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There is no single reason for this increase. Doctors believe it's a combination of different factors.
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Many theories point to lifestyle choices, such as rising rates of obesity, inactive habits (like long periods of sitting), and a lack of physical activity.
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Other factors include a diet high in red meat and processed foods, as well as smoking and drinking too much alcohol.
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Early symptoms of colorectal cancer are often ignored or mistaken for less serious issues, like hemorrhoids. This often leads to a delayed diagnosis, and by the time it is found, the cancer may be advanced.
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You should never ignore warning signs. These can include blood in your stool, persistent changes in your bowel habits, unexplained belly pain, or sudden weight loss.
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If you have any of these symptoms, even if you are young, it's crucial to talk to your doctor. Don't assume you are too young for it to be cancer.
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Colorectal cancer is very treatable and often curable, but only if it's caught early. Early diagnosis is the most important factor in a successful outcome.
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