Certain diseases and disorders tend to affect individuals of a certain age. This is not, however the case with most cancers. Historically, however, most individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over the age of 50. Reports from the American Cancer Society show that colorectal cancer is being detected in more men and women under the age of 50 and is often misdiagnosed.

Colorectal cancer rates among individuals ages 18 to 49 increased roughly 2 percent between 1998 and 2007. While not a significant percentage, the rise has surprised those within the medical profession who typically have associated colorectal cancer with those over the age of 50. In fact, most doctors would not even think to screen patients who are in their 20s or 30s for the cancer even if they are exhibiting obvious signs of the disease.

Medical professionals attribute the increase in cases of colorectal cancer among younger adults to several factors. They believe genetics plays a big role. Therefore patients who are aware of a family history should be vigilant in reporting any unusual symptoms to their doctor and request appropriate screening tests. Doctors also believe lifestyle and environmental factors are contributing to an increase in overall cancer rates, especially colorectal.

Poor diets, lack of sleep and exercise and a proliferation of plastics and chemicals in our environment may all play a role in why people are getting colorectal cancer at a younger age. Younger adults diagnosed with the disease often tell stories of months or even years of misdiagnosis. One woman, now 51, was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer at the age of just 26. After enduring more than eight years of misdiagnosis, the woman is now thankfully cancer-free, but still recalls the frustration of having to go through so many tests for so long.

Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or who are experiencing symptoms typically associated with the disease should ask their doctor about getting screened. If diagnosed early, colorectal cancer is very treatable and most patients make a full recovery.

Source: The Baltimore Sun, "More younger people getting colorectal cancer," Andrea K. Walker, July 29, 2012