Colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults. According to the American Cancer society, over 1 in 5 new colorectal patients are under 55. Learn the warning signs, understand your risk factors, and take action to prevent it. 

What is colorectal cancer? 

Colorectal cancer is an umbrella term that includes both colon cancer and rectum cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It is known to cause painful bowel movements and abdominal pain, along with several other alarming symptoms of discomfort that, left untreated, can eventually prove fatal.  

“When caught early, the survival rate of colorectal cancer is as high as 91% at Stage I,” said Dr. Naderge Pierre, a board-certified surgeon at Frederick Health specializing in Colon & Rectal Surgery. “But when caught at Stage III, that rate drops dramatically to 13%. That is why early detection—and even more so, prevention—are crucial.” 

What causes colorectal cancer? 

Some risk factors for colorectal cancer include: 

• Being overweight or obese 

• Not being physically active 

• Unhealthy diet, including those high in red & processed meats & low in vitamin D 

• Tobacco use and smoking 

• Excessive alcohol consumption 

There are also factors beyond your control that could contribute to colorectal cancer risk, including age, race, family history and genetics, and a medical history of chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. 

According to statistics released in January 2025 by the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer in people younger than 50 are on the rise. Approximately 10% of colon cancer diagnoses occurred in people younger than 50, with the majority being between the ages of 40 and 49. 

What are the symptoms? 

People in the early stages of colorectal cancer may not show any signs or symptoms, which is why it is essential to know how to prevent colorectal cancer and actively take steps to do so. Colorectal cancer may cause one or more of the following: 

• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, that lasts for more than a few days 

• Blood in the stool, which might make the stool look dark brown or black 

• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain 

• Weakness and fatigue 

• Unintended weight loss 

“Even if not at screening age of 45,” said Dr. Pierre, “One should consider screening with any worrisome changes to bowels such as these.” 

It is essential to pay attention to your body and know the potential symptoms of colorectal cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor.  

How do I prevent colorectal cancer? 

Understanding your risk factors for colon & rectal cancer can help you prevent it. The three ways you can take control of your health journey when it comes to preventing colorectal cancer include being intentional with your nutrition, activity levels, and regular screening. 

Nutrition 

You hear it all the time—healthy living starts with nutrition and activity. There is a wealth of benefits to come from eating a diet low in animal fats and high in fibrous fruits and vegetables, among them being active cancer prevention.  

In addition to eating nutritiously, limiting your alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco can lower your risk for colorectal cancer, as well as cancer in general. 

Activity 

A lack of physical activity and excessive weight are linked to higher colorectal cancer rates. Increasing physical activity doesn’t have to be daunting—try taking a walk each day for 30 to 60 minutes. If that seems out of reach for you right now, talk to your primary care provider about a set up that works for you. 

Screening 

A cancer screening is the process of looking for cancer before a person has any symptoms. Regular screenings are the key to preventing colorectal cancer. Guidelines generally recommend scheduling regular screenings beginning at age 45, but if you have risk factors, you may want to start sooner.  

Different kinds of screenings include: 

• Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard. A long, flexible tube with a camera is used to screen the entire colon and rectum.  

• Stool Tests: These tests check your blood for other signs of cancer, like DNA from abnormal cells in your stool. Sensitive at-home tests are a convenient option that helps look for signs of cancer in a person’s stool. 

• Galleri blood test: A newer, advanced blood screening that can screen for colorectal cancer with a single blood draw. This method should be used in conjunction with others. 

Talk with your primary care provider to learn more about when you should get a colonoscopy and schedule other important screenings that make sense for you. To learn more about colorectal cancer and your options for care, visit www.frederickhealth.org/Colorectal.