Colorectal Cancer On The Rise For Millennials And Gen Xers.

New studies show that colorectal cancer is on the rise for millennials and gen Xers. These new studies are raising the question, “Should colorectal cancer screening start earlier?”

A new study which tracked rates of colon cancer by age showed that starting with people born in the mid-1980s, there has been a 1-2% annual increase in rates of colorectal cancer. Rectal cancer showed an even sharper increase, with about a 3% increase per year. As a result, 3 in 10 new diagnoses of colorectal cancer occur in people under 55, which is about 2 times the rate in 1990.

"The rates of increase are alarmingly steep and quite shocking."

Although the exact reason for the increase has not been empirically demonstrated, scientists speculate that the reason may be multi-faceted, though very similar to the same mechanisms that led to the obesity epidemic. Namely, our sedentary lifestyle, coupled with high concentration of additives in our food, a low intake of fiber, and overall being overweight may have much to do with the alarming increase in colorectal cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, over 135,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in 2017 alone and about 50,000 people are expected to die from colorectal cancer.

To be sure, the rates of colorectal cancer for people in their 20s is still quite low, about .001% compared to about .05% of people in their 60s. However, as the numbers continue to increase, it is imperative that Americans, especially males, begin getting screened at an earlier age.

The consensus bycolorectal specialists in the U.S. 10 years ago was that the average person should begin screening at 50. However, with the new prevailing research, specialists are starting to recommend that the screening begin earlier, at 45 (or earlier).

If you have symptoms, such as rectal bleeding or changes in bowel movement, you should consider getting checked by a colorectal specialist. Dr Peyton Berookimis a leading colorectal physicianwho can answer any questions or concerns that you may have. If you have any questions or concerns about colorectal cancer, please don't hesitate to contact us at http://www.gidoctor.com/ or by calling 310.271.1122.