When we think about colorectal cancer, it’s often seen as a disease that affects older adults — typically those above the age of 50. However, in recent years, there has been a worrying rise in the number of younger individuals, even those in their 20s and 30s, being diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Understanding the risks, signs, and importance of early detection is critical — because colorectal cancer doesn’t just affect older people anymore.

Your health journey is unique, and every step you take matters. Whether the road is short or long, healing is always possible with the right care and a hopeful heart.

Rising Rates of Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults

Research shows that the rate of colorectal cancer in adults under 40 has been steadily increasing worldwide. In fact, according to several major studies, people born after 1990 have twice the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950.

Doctors are still trying to understand why. Some suspected factors include:

• Changes in diet (higher processed food consumption)
• Increasing rates of obesity
• Sedentary lifestyles
• Gut microbiome changes
• Environmental exposures
• Genetic factors

However, many young patients who develop colorectal cancer have no clear risk factors at all, making awareness even more important.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

One of the biggest challenges is that symptoms in young adults are often ignored or mistaken for less serious issues like hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or dietary intolerance.

Common symptoms include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
• Unexplained abdominal pain or cramping
• A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• Anemia (low red blood cell count) without an obvious cause

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s important to get checked — no matter your age.

Risk Factors for Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer

While some young people develop colorectal cancer without any known cause, certain risk factors can increase the chances:

• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Inherited genetic syndromes (like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use
• Diet high in processed meats and low in fiber

Even if you don’t have risk factors, knowing your family medical history and paying attention to your body is crucial.

Why Early Detection Matters

The earlier colorectal cancer is caught, the better the chances of successful treatment.

However, because it’s often not expected in young people, there can be delays in diagnosis. Some studies show that young adults often see multiple doctors before getting the right diagnosis, and their cancers are often detected at a later, more advanced stage.

This delay can be life-threatening — but early detection dramatically improves survival rates.

Key steps you can take:

• Don’t ignore symptoms: Seek medical advice if you notice persistent changes.
• Know your family history: If you have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer, you may need earlier screening.
• Advocate for yourself: If you feel something is wrong, push for appropriate testing.

Screening tests like colonoscopies, stool tests, and imaging studies can detect cancer or pre-cancerous polyps early.

Unfortunately, many young people — and sometimes even healthcare providers — assume that colorectal cancer only happens to older adults. This misconception can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

The truth is:
If you have symptoms, you deserve a full evaluation, no matter your age. Colorectal cancer does not discriminate by age.

Long story short

Colorectal cancer below the age of 40 is becoming more common. While this trend is concerning, it also highlights an important message: Awareness saves lives.

If you’re under 40, be aware of your body and your family medical history. If you notice unusual or persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate — get checked. Early diagnosis could make all the difference.

Your health is your best investment. Listen to your body. Trust your instincts. Seek help early.