MEDICAL FOCUS
Colon Cancer in Younger Adults: Know the Risks Lower Your Risks It may be hard to believe that colon cancer could develop in your 20s, 30s or 40s — but the risks are real. In 2020, the death “Some of the factors that increase your of actor Chadwick Boseman at age 43 risk for colon cancer are beyond your confrom colon cancer underscored the threat trol,” said Nautiyal. “However, you have the of colon cancer to younger adults. With power to make healthy lifestyle choices colon cancer increasing in younger adults, to help reduce your risk.” Nautiyal recomit’s important to raise awareness about the mends the following: risks and be proactive about prevention and • Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet with early detection. plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains The American Cancer Society estimates may help prevent colon cancer. that 12% of all new colon cancer cases • Avoid highly processed foods. Lunch in the U.S. will be diagnosed in patients meats and foods containing added chemiyounger than 50. “Lifestyle factors, such cals and preservatives may increase colon as having a poor diet and being overweight cancer risk. may be contributing to the increase in Kirtan Nautiyal, M.D., • Exercise regularly. Having a sedentary Hematologist-Oncologist. cases in younger adults; however, much is lifestyle has been linked to colon cancer. not known yet,” said Kirtan Nautiyal, M.D., • Lose weight. Being overweight or board-certified hematologist-oncologist with Houston Methodobese can also increase the risk of colon cancer. ist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land. “Adults ages 50 and older • Quit tobacco and limit alcohol. Both are linked to many are still the highest risk group for colon cancer, but the risk of cancers including colon cancer. colon cancer for younger adults is rising faster.” Colorectal Cancer Screening Early screenings and detection of colorectal cancer make it possible to find the disease early when it’s more treatable. The National Cancer Institute recommends colorectal cancer screening, including a colonoscopy, starting at age 45 for people with an average risk of colon cancer. If you have an increased risk for colorectal cancer, screening should start before age 45. You may be at increased or high risk for colon cancer if you have: • A strong family history of colon cancer • A personal history of colorectal polyps • A hereditary syndrome that increases your risk • Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease • Radiation to your abdomen or pelvic area to treat a prior cancer. How do you know if you have a strong family history of colon cancer? Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer increases your risk. The risk goes up if your relative was diagnosed before age 50 or more than one relative was diagnosed.
Watch For Warning Signs Colon cancer is more likely to be overlooked in younger people and tends to be more aggressive, so it’s important to get checked out if you have concerns. Some of the warning signs include: • Rectal bleeding • A change in bowel habits • Unusual abdominal pains • Unexpected weight loss. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nautiyal or another hematologist-oncologist, call 281.276.5200. Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
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