Young-Onset CRC Facts
Facts about young-onset colorectal cancer
Cases of young-onset colorectal cancer (YO-CRC) are increasing, but there's more to know about how this disease affects people under age 50.
About 10% of CRCs appear in people under age 50.
YO-CRC could be the deadliest cancer by 2030 in people 20-49.
Since 1994, cases of YO-CRC have increased by 51 percent.
Rectal cancer is more common than colon cancer in young patients.
Delays in diagnosis occur in 15-50% of young-onset cases.
The age people at average risk should start getting checked.
Start talking to doctors about CRC. Make sure they know it’s the second deadliest, the fourth most common, and young-onset is rising.
Nine things to know about young-onset CRC
Increasing incidence
The incidence of young-onset colorectal cancer has been rising, contrary to the declining rates in older adults.
Diagnosed at advanced stages
Young-onset colorectal cancer is often diagnosed at more advanced stages, which may be due to delayed recognition of symptoms and screening.
Symptoms are similar
Symptoms are similar to colorectal cancer in older adults, including changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.
Risk factors
Risk factors may include family history of colorectal cancer, genetic mutations, and certain hereditary conditions.
Genetics matter
Many young-onset colorectal cancer cases have a genetic component, making genetic counseling and testing important for patients and families.
Treatment options
Treatment options are similar to those for older adults, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, but issues like fertility may impact treatment decisions.
Impact on fertility
Treatments may affect fertility, so it's important for young patients to discuss fertility preservation options with their medical team.
Psychosocial impact
Young-onset colorectal cancer can have a significant psychosocial impact, including challenges related to career, family, and emotional well-being.
Focus on lifestyle
Healthy lifestyle choices, including diet and physical activity, are important for prevention and recovery.
More about young-onset CRC patients
The Alliance's latest survey report of YO-CRC patients can help you understand more about what this group faces before, during, and after a diagnosis.
Top resources
Hope in the Details: How Heather’s Biomarker Opened New Treatment Paths
After a stage IV colorectal cancer diagnosis, Heather’s biomarker test revealed a critical mutation — opening the door to clinical trials and new hope.
Proposed budget cuts could strip health insurance from millions
A proposed federal budget could cut $715 billion from Medicaid, leaving 8.6 million Americans without insurance. Learn how this impacts cancer prevention, early detection, and survival—and what you can do to help protect care access.
Alliance Launches “Screen Smart” To Make Lifesaving Cancer Screenings Easier for Everyone
The Screen Smart initiative brings together insights from medical experts, researchers, and advocates to make colorectal cancer screening decisions easier for both patients and healthcare providers.