Rising Colorectal Cancer Rates in Younger Adults Highlight Growing Health Concern
Colorectal cancer, traditionally associated with older adults, is increasingly affecting younger populations in the United States. Recent high-profile cases, such as the deaths of actor James Van Der Beek at 48 and 'Black Panther' star Chadwick Boseman at 43, underscore this alarming trend. According to Dr. John Marshall from Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, there is a noticeable increase in colorectal cancer cases among individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. The American Cancer Society reports that over 158,000 cases will be diagnosed this year, making it the second leading cancer killer in the nation. While the overall incidence and mortality rates have slightly decreased due to early detection and screening, the rise in cases among younger adults is concerning. Risk factors include obesity, lack of physical activity, diets high in red or processed meats, and low in fruits and vegetables, among others. 
