Contents
In the US, the average age of colon and rectal cancer patients is declining. The American Cancer Society report states that the incidence of colorectal cancer in the under 90 population has increased dramatically since the 50s. Half of the newly diagnosed patients are under 66 years of age.
- In 2016, the average age of colorectal cancer patients in the United States fell from 72 years (1989) to 66 years
- In the case of this cancer, the risk factors are obesity, poor diet, and taking antibiotics
- The natives of Alaska are most at risk of developing colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer rose to third place among all cancers affecting men and women due to the number of deaths. Americans most often suffer from lung and prostate cancer, and Americans – lung and breast cancer.
Colorectal cancer: the average age of patients is decreasing
The American Cancer Society recommends regular screening for colon and rectal cancer in people over 45, and other health organizations after the age of 50.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017 people died of colorectal cancer in the United States in 52.
Over the years, this cancer is detected in younger and younger patients. The American Cancer Society report says the median age of those diagnosed in 1989 was 72 years. Since the beginning of the 66st century, it has dropped to 2016 (in XNUMX). Interestingly, the incidence of colorectal cancer is declining in people aged 65+ and is increasing in younger adults.
— The report is important for two reasons, says Rebecca Siegel, co-author of the study and chief research supervisor at the American Cancer Society in Atlanta. – It describes not only the current picture of colorectal cancer incidence, but also includes forecasts for the future. If the increase in the number of patients among younger adults continues, clinicians will face unique challenges, such as the need to preserve fertility and sexual function, and the risk of long-term treatment outcomes.
- Editors recommend: Colon cancer develops silently. What are the symptoms?
Colon cancer: the obesity epidemic is one of the risk factors
The report includes data on the number of colorectal cancer cases and deaths collected by the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Analyzing them, the researchers found that the incidence of colorectal cancer in people under the age of 50 has been increasing since the mid-90s.
In the years 2012 – 2016, the incidence of the disease in this age group increased by 2,2%. annually (colon and rectal cancer). Among adults aged 50 to 64, the incidence decreased in 2000, then changed its course and increased by 1% annually in 2011-2016. The rates again began to fall by 3,3%. annually in the years 2011 – 2016
“The decline in older adults is due to the increased number of screening tests, but the reason for the increase in the younger group is still unknown,” says Rebecca Siegel.
Director Siegel added: “Probably one reason is the obesity epidemic, but not the only one. Another risk factor is poor diet. Taking medications, such as antibiotics, also affects the health of the intestines, especially our microbiome. ‘
- See also: The five most dangerous bowel diseases
Colorectal cancer: younger patients need to be monitored more closely
The report revealed trends in colorectal cancer deaths and made predictions for the future.
It has been shown that between 2008 and 2017, the death rate from colorectal cancer decreased by 3%. annually in adults aged 65+ and by 0,6%. annually in people aged 50 – 64. At the same time, this ratio increased by 1,3%. annually in people up to 50 years of age.
The report also describes the “striking differences” in race and geography between the cases. For example, the mortality rate among Alaskan indigenous peoples is almost three times higher than that of whites and about two times higher than that of blacks.
Between 2012 and 2016, the incidence rate of colorectal cancer ranged from 30 cases (per 100 inhabitants) in the Asia-Pacific region, through 38,6 in whites to 45,7 in blacks and 89 in indigenous peoples Alaska.
Unfortunately, scientists have not been able to pinpoint why there were declines or spikes in the incidence of different age groups. However, they predicted an estimated 2020 for the US – 53. 200 deaths from colorectal cancer, including 7%. (3 640) adults up to 50 years of age. They also forecast 147 thousand. 950 new cases of colorectal cancer, including 12% (17 thousand 930) in adults up to 50 years of age.
This may interest you:
- She looked for help for two years. They thought she was too young for colon cancer
- Do not ignore this symptom! This is the first sign that your gut is not working properly
- Seven foods that harm the intestines
The content of the medTvoiLokony website is intended to improve, not replace, the contact between the Website User and their doctor. The website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Before following the specialist knowledge, in particular medical advice, contained on our Website, you must consult a doctor. The Administrator does not bear any consequences resulting from the use of information contained on the Website. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.