Colon cancer is an increasing risk for older millennials

Colon cancer has long been considered a “disease of an elderly person”. But this perception changes quickly. Colorectal cancer rates increase greatly among people under the age of 50, and for black men and women, the risks are even more pronounced. These are not only statistics; These are real lives and what we can do to protect them.

The growing threat

Colon cancer is no longer a concern for the elderly. Over the past two decades, cases among the under 50s have increased regularly, climbing around 1 to 2% per year. According to the medical school of the University of Washington, colorectal cancer should become the main cause of death -related death for those under 50 years of age 2030.

What is even more disturbing is how much younger patients are blind. Many have no family history of the disease or other traditional risk factors, which leaves symptoms like abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or changes in intestinal habits rejected or neglected until it is too late.

For young adults, this delay often means that cancer is diagnosed at a more advanced stage, complicating treatment options and results.

What is behind the figures?

Although the exact reasons for the increase in early colorectal cancer are not fully understood, the researchers indicate several probable contributors:

Quarter -diet

The modern western diet, rich in processed and low fiber foods, has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Fiber is the key to a healthy intestine, but most Americans are not far from the 25 to 34 grams recommended per day.

Studies suggest that fiber can reduce the risk of colon cancer up to 15%, but heavy diets in fast food and processed snacks are the opposite.

Inactivity and obesity

The link between obesity and the risk of colorectal cancer is well established, obesity increasing the probability of around 30%, according to the CDC. The lack of exercise only makes matters worse. Regular physical activity helps reduce inflammation, improve intestinal health and directly reduce the risk of cancer, but sedentary lifestyles are far too common.

Intestinal microbiome disturbance

According to the National Library of Medicine, bad diets and the use of long -term antibiotics can balance off -piste intestinal bacteria, potentially accelerating the development of cancer. The intestinal microbiome is vital for digestion and immunity, but these disturbances can open the way to the disease.

Genetics and environmental factors

While hereditary conditions such as Lynch syndrome play a role for some, the majority of patients with younger colon cancer have no family history, suggesting that environmental exhibitions or unidentified triggers may contribute.

Why colon cancer strikes our harder community

For black Americans, the image is even more alarming. We are 20% more likely to develop colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die than other racial groups, according to American Cancer Society. These disparities come more than from biology; They are shaped by systemic inequalities that create obstacles to care and prevention. Some obstacles that challenge our community include:

• Living in food deserts: Living in areas without access to fresh and affordable food makes much more difficult to maintain a diet rich in fibers and which fights against cancer. Foods processed and rich in fat dominate in these environments, increasing risk factors such as obesity.
• Problems Access to health care and projections: our community is faced with limited access to health care and insurance, leading to delayed projections of colorectal cancer. Only 65% ​​of black Americans participate in recommended screening, compared to higher rates in other populations.
• Receiving a diagnosis at subsequent stages: black patients are more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease. According to Colon Cancer Foundation, almost 26 percent of the early cases of black American are metastatic at diagnosis, compared to 22% in white Americans.

What you can do

Although colon cancer can be intimidating, you can do a lot to protect yourself and yourself and those you love. Start by paying attention to your body. If you notice changes in intestinal habits, unexplained weight loss, blood in stool or persistent fatigue, do not rub it. Press the answers and if your concerns are not taken seriously, get a second opinion. Early detection saves lives.

Projections are your best defense. The American Cancer Society now recommends starting screening at 45 for those who are at average risks.

But if you have family history or other factors, consider starting earlier. Scores can detect cancers at an early stage and even eliminate precancerous polyps before becoming something more dangerous.

Small lifestyle changes can also make a big difference. Here are some things to consider:

• Include fiber -rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains in your diet.
• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate weekly exercise to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
• Reduce transformed and red meats while maintaining a healthy weight.
• More importantly, normalize conversations on health within your family. The sharing of medical history and the discussion of symptoms can allow everyone to ask for care earlier.

Rewrite the story

The colon cancer no longer corresponds to its old stereotypes. It appears earlier, strikes stronger and affecting our community disproportionately. But consciousness and action can change history. With a stronger advocacy for screening, lifestyle changes and open conversations, we can face this challenge together. Let’s protect ourselves, our families and our future by putting health in the foreground, because it is a fight that we can ensure and win.