GREENSBORO, N.C. — A new study from the American Cancer Society reveals colon cancer rates keep rising in younger age groups.

The findings also show cases are being detected at more advanced stages.


What You Need To Know

  • A new study from the American Cancer Society reveals colon cancer rates keep rising in younger age groups

  • The findings also show cases are being detected at more advanced stages

  • The American Cancer Society anticipates more than 153,000 cases this year and more than 52,000 deaths

One in five people, who will be diagnosed presently, are under the age of 55 years old, according to the American Cancer Society.

Dr. David Hiller with Novant Health encourages younger patients to get screenings as well.

“We’re better at screening older adults. We’ve always done a great job saying, 'when you get 50, you get a colonoscopy.' And the older patients are always great about screenings. We’re finding younger patients, not as much,” Hiller said.

Hiller says the cause of that is unknown and may take some time to get an answer, but says there are questions about whether it’s environmental, our lifestyle, what we’re eating or lack of exercise.

“In the meantime, we need to make sure we’re screening correctly,” Hiller said.

Hiller says there’s been a delay in screenings, especially in low income families and communities of color.

“It comes down to money and access to care and tests, such as a colonoscopy, that can be viewed as expensive, definitely fall in that category,” Hiller explained.

The American Cancer Society anticipates more than 153,000 cases this year and more than 52,000 deaths. Doctors say it’s important to know your family history and risks.

Colorectal cancer is still the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women.

Other companies outside of Novant Health say there are other options. There’s a first-of-its-kind colorectal cancer screening blood test that helps with early detection. The test is available exclusively at Any Lab Test Now locations. It’s a simple blood draw from the arm, and that’s all that’s needed.

The lab company launched the drops as part of a stop colon cancer campaign to spread the word about this test. To learn more about this test, click here.

Novant Health says this test is not 100% effective and not always recommended. Dr. Hiller says a colonoscopy is always the best choice first unless specifically directed by a doctor for a blood test.