Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Surges, Prompting Urgent Screening Rethink

Colorectal cancer is rising sharply among people under 50, now a leading cause of cancer deaths for men under 50 and the second leading cause for women under 50. While screening guidelines lowered the age to 45, experts warn that “average risk” is no longer static and many younger people need earlier or more personalized surveillance. Be vigilant about persistent symptoms, discuss family history with doctors, and seek timely evaluation to enable early detection and better outcomes.