Colorectal cancer is increasing among younger adults, with early symptoms often overlooked, according to a March 16 report. The recent death of actor James Van Der Beek at age 48 has brought attention to this trend. Van Der Beek had publicly discussed his diagnosis in 2024 and was among a growing number of younger people facing colorectal cancer.
This issue matters because colon and rectal cancers were once more common in older adults, but new data from the American Cancer Society show that nearly half of new cases now occur in people aged 64 and younger. While cases and deaths have declined among those over 65 due to increased screening, rates are rising by about 3% each year for adults aged 20 to 49.
Dr. Robert Hoyer, a cancer expert at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, said, “The overall incidence of colorectal cancer is going down. However, among individuals below the age of 50, the incidence of colorectal cancer is going up.” He explained that most colorectal cancers begin as polyps in the digestive system: “Colon and rectal cancers will start as a polyp. Screenings help identify these polyps and remove them with colonoscopy, which prevents the development of cancer.”
Hoyer emphasized that early detection greatly improves survival rates: “When these polyps are identified early, the survival rate for early-stage colon cancer is extremely high, it exceeds 90-to-95%.” He urged anyone experiencing changes in bowel habits or blood in their stool to consult their doctor: “The biggest warning signs can be changes in bowel habits and blood in the stool. If you’re having those symptoms, it’s important to talk with your doctor.”
Screening remains critical for prevention. Hoyer said people should begin regular screenings at age 45 or earlier if they have a family history of colorectal cancer: “If you’re age 45 and older, you need to have some form of colon cancer screening test.” Colonoscopies are considered the gold standard because doctors can remove polyps during the procedure; negative results provide protection for up to ten years.
Stool-based tests offer an alternative but require more frequent testing. Hoyer described them as easy to use at home but noted that abnormal results still require follow-up colonoscopies: “The stool kit can be sent to your house… It’s very easy.” Fecal immunochemical tests detect blood in stool without a prescription; positive results mean a colonoscopy is recommended.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, unhealthy diets high in processed foods or red meat, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and excess weight contribute significantly to risk. Hoyer advised patients: “In general, I counsel my patients to eat diets higher in fruits and vegetables… My recommendation is to lower meat consumption in general, particularly red meat.”
To improve access for uninsured or underinsured residents—especially those living remotely—the University of Colorado Anschutz Cancer Center offers free FIT kits through its Office of Community Outreach and Engagement. Eligible individuals can request kits online or by phone; positive results lead to free colonoscopies funded by the Colon Cancer Coalition.
Looking ahead, experts continue urging awareness about symptoms and lifestyle choices while promoting regular screenings as key steps toward reducing colorectal cancer cases among younger adults.
