The rising threat of colorectal cancer (CRC) in people younger than 50 years
A shifting mortality landscape
Although overall cancer mortality in people younger than 50 years decreased by 44% from 1990 to 2023, colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality in this age group has increased by 1.1% annually since 2005. CRC ranks as the #1 cause of cancer death in Americans younger than 50 years. Its ranking among leading causes of cancer death in this age group has changed substantially, from 5th in the 1990s to 1st in 2023.
Advanced CRC in younger adults
The stage at which CRC is diagnosed is also an important consideration. Three in four individuals younger than 50 years with CRC are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
References
Full citations supporting the clinical and scientific information presented above are included in the downloadable infographic.
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