Author: Johnathan Keeley

Title: The Rising Tide: Understanding Colorectal Cancer in the Young

In a world where health news often comes laced with the latest diet trends or miracle cures, it’s the hard-hitting facts about diseases like colorectal cancer that need our undivided attention. Particularly when such facts challenge our preconceived notions about who is at risk. Traditionally viewed as a disease of the elderly, colorectal cancer is now showing its unforgiving presence among the younger population, including, most alarmingly, adolescents and even children. But why is this happening, and what can we do about it?

Why Are Younger People Getting Colorectal Cancer?

The question that’s on everyone’s mind is undoubtedly: Why? Why are we witnessing a disturbing rise in colorectal cancer rates among the youth? Recent data showing a 500% increase in cases among children aged 10 to 14 and a 333% increase among teens aged 15 to 19 over the past two decades is nothing short of shocking. And while the percentages are alarmingly high, it’s crucial to remember that the actual numbers, though growing, are still relatively low. But this doesn’t diminish the urgency to understand and address this trend.

Dr. John Marshall, a leading figure in the study of gastrointestinal cancers, admits that the medical community is still grappling with the “why” behind this trend. Known risk factors such as obesity, tobacco use, and poor diet don’t fully explain the rise, especially in cases where family history or genetic predisposition is absent. Instead, Marshall points toward changes in our microbiome—our internal ecosystem—as a possible culprit. Our modern lifestyles, including exposure to chemicals, changes in diet, and even reduced outdoor play, might be altering our microbiome in ways that increase our susceptibility to diseases like colorectal cancer.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For?

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer in its early stages can be life-saving. Yet, this presents another challenge: How do we ensure that our children and teens feel comfortable enough to share sensitive health details that could indicate a problem? The most common symptoms mirror those in adults—changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, signs of iron deficiency anemia, and, notably, rectal bleeding.

The importance of open, shame-free communication within families cannot be overstated. It’s not just about asking the right questions but also about encouraging an environment where young people feel safe discussing their health concerns, no matter how embarrassing or personal.

What Can Be Done to Protect Our Young?

While it’s clear that more research is needed to understand the full scope of the issue, there are steps that can be taken to protect our youth. Encouraging healthy lifestyles, including diets rich in fiber and low in processed foods, regular physical activity, and minimizing exposure to toxins, may help. Equally important is advocating for awareness—both among the public and within the medical community—to ensure that these cases are caught early and treated effectively.

Final Thoughts

The rising rates of colorectal cancer among adolescents and children should serve as a wake-up call to all of us. It’s a stark reminder that cancer does not discriminate by age and that our collective efforts in research, prevention, and education are crucial in combatting this trend. As we forge ahead, let’s take the lessons learned from these findings to heart, striving for a future where such diseases no longer take our young by surprise.

In the face of such challenges, knowledge remains our best defense. Let’s use it wisely.