Are our lifestyle choices causing the rise in colorectal cancer in young adults?
Written by:
Clinical oncologist
Published: 27/05/2020
Edited by: Cameron Gibson-Watt
The number of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer has steadily increased over the years and now stands at around 12,000, according to Cancer Research UK (CRUK). However, the diagnosis of rectal cancer in young adults has also increased in the last few years, with some health experts believing our lifestyle and diet choices are partly to blame. This article explains more.
Is colorectal cancer common in young adults?
Although the incidence increases with age, and the majority of patients are above the age of 65 years, in the past few years we have seen an increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer in younger age groups, and we are not sure why.
Although genetic factors play a role in some types of colorectal cancer, we still do not fully understand all the risk factors associated with the disease.
Why is colorectal cancer increasing in younger adults?
Although they aren’t solely responsible, a poor diet, obesity, and lack of exercise are all potential contributory risk factors. We are aware that these lifestyle factors can play a role in the development of colorectal cancer, but the data pointing towards this is not as clear as one might think.
There has been some speculation that eating red meat can increase the risk of colorectal cancer, but the supporting evidence in the published data is not as strong as, for example, the association of smoking and lung cancer. There is also mounting evidence that being overweight or obese can also be a contributory risk factor for the development of bowel cancer.
What lifestyle changes should young adults be making?
Changes in your lifestyle habits can contribute greatly to preventing colorectal cancer. Therefore, a precautionary approach is to limit red meat in your diet to no more than three portions (350–500g cooked weight) a week, and to avoid processed meat whenever possible.
It is also advisable to eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. A well-balanced diet combined with regular exercise appropriate to your health will keep your weight down and help guard against rectal and bowel cancer.
Colorectal cancer screening in adults
Another important thing you can do is to attend bowel cancer screening when invited, either Flexi scope when you reach the age 55 or faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) after the age of 60. Having regular screenings can help to detect early rectal cancer or to remove polyps which can become cancerous in the later years. This can not only save your life but, your rectum as well!
If you are worried about anything mentioned in this article, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a specialist.