Colorectal cancer deaths rise as younger adults face advanced diagnoses

WESTON, Wis. (WSAW) – Colorectal cancers have seen a 1% increase in deaths every year since 2005, while the mortality rate of every other type of cancer has decreased during that same time span. The Cancer Research Institute says colorectal cancer is the third-most diagnosed cancer in the U.S. Although the recommended screening age is

WESTON, Wis. (WSAW) – Colorectal cancers have seen a 1% increase in deaths every year since 2005, while the mortality rate of every other type of cancer has decreased during that same time span.

The Cancer Research Institute says colorectal cancer is the third-most diagnosed cancer in the U.S. Although the recommended screening age is 45, doctors at Marshfield Clinic are finding that the age might need to be lower.

“We are talking more now about the younger adults, less than 50 years old. Two-thirds of these individuals are presenting with advanced-stage. And what that leads to is that there’s increased mortality and morbidity,” said Dr. Adedayo Onitilo, the chief of oncology services at Marshfield Clinic in Weston.

One reason why younger adults are being diagnosed with stage-3 and 4 colorectal cancers is that they don’t believe they can get the disease, and go without screenings.

Some symptoms of the disease are lingering abdominal pain, unexpected weight loss, or bloody stools. One big issue when diagnosing colorectal cancers is that patients ignore symptoms for too long. Although the topic might be embarrassing, it’s important to bring it up.

Talking to family members about colorectal cancer can actually help save your life. Not all cancers are the same. Colon cancer is hereditary, and those with a family history of the disease have a higher chance of getting it themselves.

“It’s very important that people know their family history and it’s also very important not to hide it. There is no taboo in having cancer. It’s good to share it,” Onitilo said.

The cause of colorectal cancers isn’t fully understood yet, but doctors have an idea as to what might cause it.

“Number one probably will be the Western diets that we eat, sugar-sweetened substances, beverages especially, are some of the reasons,” Onitilo said.

There are treatments for colorectal cancers currently, like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. They can get rid of the disease in those with stage-3 cancer, and can keep those with stage-4 cancer alive for longer.

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