Colon And Rectal Cancer Rates Rising For Young People; Lifestyle Change Important To Reverse Trend
The recent study by American Cancer Society is a real concern as the colon and rectal cancers in youngsters are going up every year. Though it is rare in the young generation, the numbers are getting a sharp increase in the 20s and 30s. The rate of colorectal cancers is reducing steadily for the people born after 1890 and before 1950. But, the trend has reversed for youngsters and now people born after 1950 has increased risks for every new generation.
The American Cancer Society confirmed that rectal cancers are rising sharply than other large intestine cancers and there would have 13,500 new cases of rectal and colon cancers this year under 50. For example, people born in 1990 have double the risk of colon cancer and four-times the risk of rectal cancer than people born in 1950 with their corresponding ages. However, the researchers confirmed that they couldn't find the reason for the change in trend.
Dr. Thomas Weber of SUNY Downstate Medical Center confirmed that each year the new colorectal cancers exceeds the previous year count in case of people under 50. It is found that people who are potential victims of the colorectal cancers are not getting the diagnosis on time. The physicians are yet to change the mindset that young people can't be prone to colorectal cancers. Previously the colorectal cancers were found to be part of aging, and when older people are showing an improvement in reducing the numbers, the youngsters are looking more prone to it, and it is worrisome, researchers say.
The colorectal cancers for elders are effectively treated by diagnosing it at the early stages using tests like colonoscopies. But, these screening tests are not effective to youngsters and doctors are looking for alternative methods to make the diagnosis. There are also opinions that the lifestyle changes are increasing the risks of cancer. Experts say that fruits and vegetables with rich fiber content, cessation of alcohol and smoking, and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risks of colorectal cancers.
