Colorectal Cancer: Not Just a Disease of the Elderly

Colorectal cancer is no longer seen as an illness affecting only older adults. Today, this diagnosis is increasingly being made in young adults, making early detection a matter of life and death.

Changing Perceptions of Risk Groups

For a long time, it was believed that colorectal cancer primarily affected older people. However, recent statistics show a rise in cases among younger individuals, which is causing concern among specialists worldwide. The issue gained particular attention after the death of actor Chadwick Boseman at age 43 in 2020, highlighting the growing incidence among people under 50 and challenging established views on risk groups.

Global Trends and Causes of Increase

International studies published in The Lancet Oncology confirm the rising incidence of colorectal cancer among young adults. From 2013 to 2017, rates increased in 27 out of 50 countries analyzed. The highest numbers are still recorded in North America and Europe, but significant growth is also seen in Eastern Europe, South and Southeast Asia, and South America.

Experts link this trend to global lifestyle changes: shifts in diet, reduced physical activity, urbanization, and environmental factors. To slow this trend, earlier screening, healthy eating, and greater public awareness are essential. Without effective measures, specialists believe early-onset colorectal cancer will continue to rise in the coming decades.

The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle

Lifestyle and diet are directly linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Research points to diet as one of the key risk factors. High consumption of ultra-processed foods, red and processed meats, and sugary drinks promotes inflammation and increases cancer susceptibility.

For example, in Kazakhstan, average meat consumption is nearly double the World Cancer Research Fund’s recommended limit of 500 grams per week. Only 8.6% of study participants consumed fish in recommended amounts, which can lead to nutritional imbalances and higher cancer risk. Obesity is also considered a major risk factor, as excess fat tissue contributes to chronic inflammation and disrupts metabolism. However, scientists note that the role of obesity may be more complex: many colorectal cancer patients experience unintended weight loss before diagnosis, indicating a need to reassess standard risk assessment methods.

Genetic Factors and Heredity

Genetics and hereditary syndromes also play a significant role in early-onset colorectal cancer. According to Alexey Tsukanov, head of the genetics laboratory at the National Medical Research Center of Radiology, many cases in young people are linked to hereditary syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. These conditions are caused by mutations in tumor suppressor genes, sharply increasing the likelihood of developing cancer at a young age.

Despite the importance of early diagnosis, symptoms often go unnoticed. These include persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and ongoing abdominal discomfort.

New Opportunities for Diagnosis and Prevention

Alexey Tsukanov emphasizes the importance of genetic testing for people with a family history of colorectal cancer: identifying hereditary mutations allows for lifelong clinical monitoring and early intervention, significantly improving survival rates. New screening technologies are also expanding diagnostic possibilities. For example, the COLOTECT® test from BGI Genomics detects genetic cancer markers (SDC2, ADHFE1, and PPP2R5C) in stool DNA, enabling non-invasive detection of cancer-related changes at an early stage.

Unequal Access to Screening

Access to colorectal cancer screening varies greatly by region. In some parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, screening programs remain inconsistent. Countries like Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Latvia, and Georgia have national screening programs, while in others, diagnostics are performed sporadically. As a result, many cases are detected at later stages.

The Importance of Educational Programs

Educational efforts are considered a key step toward improving the situation. To increase early detection, both healthcare professionals and the general public need to be educated about the importance of screening, notes Jemima Arakelyan, advisor to the Institute of Immuno-Oncology Research and general director of the Cancer and Crisis Institute in Armenia.

Coordinated Action—The Key to Success

Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting young adults, with unhealthy lifestyles playing a significant role. Addressing this growing problem requires coordinated action from governments, healthcare systems, and individuals: raising awareness, supporting healthy choices, and expanding access to early screening. The urgency of the issue continues to grow.