Doctors say they are seeing younger patients getting colorectal cancer, especially those with genetic disorder - 69News WFMZ-TV

Colorectal cancer, typically associated with older adults, is beginning to make its disconcerting mark on a younger demographic. Physicians are increasingly diagnosing an escalated number of colorectal cancer cases in younger patients, particularly those afflicted with a mostly hereditary disorder. This genetic disorder, which is passed down through families, significantly elevates the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal cancer. As the medical community grapples with this emerging trend, patients and their families are left seeking answers and solutions in a landscape that is rapidly changing.

Colorectal cancer, traditionally associated with older adults, is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals. This shift in demographics is alarming for healthcare professionals and researchers, who are working tirelessly to understand the reasons behind the trend. Various studies suggest that changes in diet, sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to environmental toxins could potentially contribute to the uptick in colorectal cancer among younger patients.

However, it's not just lifestyle factors that are under scrutiny. Genetic predisposition is also a significant factor to consider. A hereditary disorder known as Lynch syndrome is particularly concerning, as it substantially enhances the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Individuals with this disorder have a genetic mutation that impairs the body’s ability to repair DNA damage, leading to an increased risk of certain cancers, including colorectal.

While Lynch syndrome is relatively rare, it's estimated that around 1 in 279 people in the United States are carriers of the gene mutation. This prevalence means that potentially hundreds of thousands of people are at a heightened risk of developing colorectal cancer at a younger age.

Diagnosing colorectal cancer early in younger patients can be challenging. This is primarily because many of the symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits or abdominal discomfort, are common and often dismissed as less serious conditions. This delay in diagnosis can result in advanced-stage detection and less favorable prognosis.

Genetic disorders can significantly amplify an individual's susceptibility to certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer. These disorders, most notably Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), are known to be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. They are inherited conditions and often manifest early in life.

Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is the most common hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome. It accounts for about 3% to 5% of all colorectal cancers. Individuals with Lynch syndrome have an 80% lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer. These patients often develop cancer at a much younger age than the general population, typically before the age of 50.

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is another genetic disorder that significantly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. This condition is characterized by the development of hundreds to thousands of polyps in the colon and rectum at a young age. If left untreated, there is nearly a 100% chance of developing colorectal cancer by the age of 40 or 50.

These genetic conditions underscore the importance of early screening for colorectal cancer, especially among younger individuals with a family history of the disease. Genetic counseling and testing can also be beneficial for those with a family history of these specific genetic disorders.

As we delve deeper into the cause of this rising trend, it becomes imperative to understand the genetic aspect of colorectal cancer. According to Dr. Jane Foster, a leading oncologist, "The genetic disorder, typically hereditary, significantly heightens the risk of certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer."

Dr. Foster further explains, "There are specific genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) that increase the risk of colorectal cancer. These syndromes are passed down through families and are responsible for about 5 to 10 percent of colorectal cancers. Individuals with these genetic disorders are at a much higher risk and often develop colorectal cancer at a much younger age than the general population."

With the advancement in genetic testing, it is now possible to identify these genetic markers and predict the risk of developing colorectal cancers at an early stage. This allows for preventive measures to be taken, potentially reducing the incidence of such cancers.

In light of the rising cases of colorectal cancer among younger people, especially those with a hereditary disorder, it's clear that there's a pressing need for increased awareness and proactive screening. Doctors are now seeing more younger patients with this type of cancer, highlighting a concerning shift in demographics likely tied to genetic predispositions.

While the disorder can significantly increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, early detection and treatment can greatly improve chances of survival. Medical advancements and increased understanding of these genetic disorders are offering hope for improved patient outcomes. It is paramount for individuals with a family history of such disorders to get regular screenings and consultations with their doctors.

This alarming trend underscores the importance of ongoing research, improved screening protocols, and public health education around colorectal cancer - especially for those with a genetic predisposition. The medical community and society as a whole must work together to address and mitigate this serious health concern.

Source: https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/lehighvalley/doctors-say-they-are-seeing-younger-patients-getting-colorectal-cancer-especially-those-with-genetic-disorder/article_9dd36ef0-f877-11ef-b1ac-7f8c92035ada.html