Rise in early-onset colorectal cancer

Investigators may have uncovered potential factors contributing to the increased rates of early-onset colorectal cancer (onset < 50 years) in the United States.

In a review published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the investigators examined the genetic, lifestyle and environmental risk factors associated with early-onset colorectal cancer.

They discovered that about 20% of the cases could be attributed to hereditary mutations, indicating that the majority of early-onset colorectal cancer cases may involve molecular characteristics. Obesity and Type 2 diabetes were also found to be prominent risk factors.

Further, diets high in fat and sugar and lifestyle habits such as alcohol and tobacco consumption may elevate the risk of disease. The investigators noted that gut dysbiosis has been identified in early-onset colorectal cancer cases, representing a correlation between gut microbiome alterations and disease etiology.

The findings indicated that patients may benefit from age-adjusted screening guidelines. Future studies focusing on gene-environment interactions may be needed to better understand factors contributing to early-onset colorectal cancer.

Read more: Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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