Thanks to increased screening, overall colorectal cancer rates have decreased by about 1% each year since 2013 among older adults, but there's a concerning trend emerging among younger people. 

In people younger than 50, rates have increased by 2.9% per year from 2013 to 2022. Even more alarming, as of 2023, colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans under 50. Scientists are still investigating why this is happening, but potential factors include diet, obesity, physical inactivity, and changes in the gut microbiome. 

Warning Signs to Watch For 

Colorectal cancer often doesn't cause symptoms until it has begun to spread, which is why screening is so critical. When symptoms do appear, they may include: 

• A noticeable change in bowel habits lasting four weeks or more

• Bloody bowel movements

• Persistent stomach pain or cramps

• Unexplained weight loss

• Ongoing fatigue 

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially those related to your bathroom habits, see your doctor as soon as possible. 

Know Your Risk Factors 

Some risk factors you can't control, while others are within your power to change. Age remains the number one risk factor, with nine out of 10 colorectal cancer cases occurring in people 50 or older. However, with rising rates in younger adults, age is no longer the only consideration. 

Other risk factors include:

• A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease

• A family history of colorectal cancer

• Certain genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) 

Let your doctor know if any of these apply to you—they may recommend earlier or more frequent testing. 

The Life-Saving Power of Screening 

The CDC recommends regular screenings beginning at age 45 for those without special health concerns or family history of colon issues, and screenings should continue until age 75. Adults between ages 76 and 85 should get screened only when directed by a doctor. 

There are several screening options available, and your doctor will recommend the best one based on your health history and preferences:

• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) — Done once a year, can be completed at home with no special preparation.

• Cologuard Test — Done every three years, can be completed at home without any special preparation, but need to be sure that can be sent back to the laboratory within same day of collection or next day after completion.

• Colonoscopy — A more comprehensive screening performed once every 10 years (or more frequently when recommended by a doctor).

In many cases, colorectal cancer screenings are covered at no cost by most health care plans. 

Lifestyle Changes That Lower Your Risk 

Living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your colorectal cancer risk while also protecting against heart disease, diabetes, and other serious conditions:

• Maintain a healthy weight — losing even a few pounds if you're overweight can help

• Limit alcohol consumption

• Stop smoking or using tobacco products

• Get regular cardiovascular exercise, like daily walks

• Replace processed meats, hot dogs, and red meat with lean chicken and fish

• Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables 

AltaMed Is Here for You 

This National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, make your health a priority. AltaMed offers essential screenings, including those for colorectal cancer. You may qualify for a FIT kit or Cologuard Test delivered to your home, but scheduling an appointment ensures you get the screening method that's right for you. 

Don't wait—early detection saves lives. Call us at (888) 499-9303 to get started.