More studies suggest colon cancer rates on the rise for those under 50
As we reported here in 2009, colon cancer rates continue to be on the rise for those in the under 50 set, while the rates appear to be falling for those over 50.
An article published by WebMD on December 13, 2011 highlights a new study published by the Archives of Internal Medicine. The article highlighted some notable statistics:
- Between 1998 and 2007 colorectal cancer cases have dropped steadily in adults over 50, but they increased by more than 2% each ear in younger adults, as much as 4% for rectal cancers, and 3% for colon cancer.
- Younger adults were more likely than older adults to be diagnosed with late-stage cancers.
- People in their 30s were about 30% more likely than other age groups to be diagnosed with cancers in stage III or IV.
- When a patients in their 30s or 40s present with symptoms like bleeding, abdominal pain, or change in bowel habits doctors and patients alike are less like to suspect cancer and there fore diagnosis is delayed.
Advise to patients?
- Just because you’re under 50, doesn’t mean your not at risk
- If you have a family history, go talk to your doctor, especially if that relative got colon cancer before they were 50.
- Advise from Anthony, Starpoli, MD, a gastroenterolist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, as told to WebMD.
To read the full article published on December 13, visit WebMD.com.
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It’s so important to catch colon and colorectal cancer, or any cancer for that matter, at an early stage. Colon cancer also has a very high recurrence rate in patients, at roughly 35%. If you know somebody that’s been diagnosed with colon cancer, tell them about a new FDA approved cancer test called Onko-Sure that’s used to monitor colon cancer in patients. You can get more info a http://www.onko-sure.com/
I hope this was useful,
Adam
I was diagnosed at the age of 31. I had a complete blockage caused by a stage 3 tumor. I almost lost my life because no one suspected this in someone my age. My home health nurses would agree with this article. They say their patients with colon cancer seem to be getting younger and younger. Our generation has definitely been exposed to more at an earlier age than our parents’ generation, so it only seems reasonable that this is occuring. Everyone- get your colonoscopies- Early!!!