"Even though we treat young patients with more aggressive chemo or more surgery, patients' outcomes are not necessarily better. The disease has become the top cancer killer among people under 50, even as death rates decline in older age groups."
"Genetics play some role in colorectal cancers. As many as a fifth of patients have hereditary markers that increase the risk of getting colorectal cancer. But genetics do not explain what drives the vast majority of cases."
"There must be some environmental factors or changes. It is highly unusual to see dramatic changes in disease patterns within a single generation."
Ning Jin, an oncologist, notes a concerning increase in late-stage colorectal cancer among patients in their 30s and 40s. These tumors are more difficult to treat, and outcomes remain poor despite aggressive treatment. Colorectal cancer has become the leading cancer killer for those under 50, contrasting with declining death rates in older populations. The gut microbiome may play a significant role in this trend. Genetics account for a small percentage of cases, suggesting environmental factors are likely influencing the rise in younger patients.
Read at www.npr.org
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