Colon cancer cases have more than doubled in young people since 1999, new research shows [Video]

New evidence shows how sharply colon cancer rates are skyrocketing in people younger than 45.

A team of researchers led by Dr. Islam Mohamed, a physician at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, analyzed CDC data on colon cancer incidence in Americans aged 10 to 44 over two decades.

They found that cases have more than tripled in teenagers and more than doubled for people in their early 20s.

While the biggest jump in cancer diagnoses was in younger people, the surge in cancer rates was significant across all age groups under 45:

The study will be presented at Digestive Disease Week, a meeting for professionals in gastroenterology and related fields, from May 18 to 21 in Washington, D.C.

The findings suggest a need for better awareness, treatment, and prevention options for younger people.

“Colorectal cancer is no longer considered just a disease of the elderly population,” Mohamed said in a press release. “It’s important that the public is aware of signs and symptoms of colorectal …