March marks Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, shining a spotlight on a troubling trend – colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 have been on the rise for the past three decades. This is a concerning development as colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50 and the second leading cause in women under 50, after breast cancer.
According to doctors, early-onset colorectal cancer cases have been increasing by approximately 2% each year since the mid-1990s. Alarmingly, individuals born around 1990 have double the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in the 1950s.
Michael Cecchini, a representative from the Center for Gastrointestinal Cancers, warns that this is an escalating problem that needs to be addressed. Cecchini urges younger people to be aware of the symptoms of colorectal cancer and to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning signs.
As the rates of colorectal cancer continue to rise in younger populations, it is more important than ever to prioritize screenings and early detection. By increasing awareness and understanding of this disease, it is possible to take proactive steps towards prevention and treatment.
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