The world wept when Chadwick Boseman, the vibrant star of Black Panther, passed away in 2020 at just 43, after a four-year battle with colorectal cancer. His loss was a stark reminder that this disease doesn’t just strike the elderly—it’s increasingly targeting younger adults. Over the past two decades, colorectal cancer rates have been climbing in people under 50, a trend that’s sounding alarm bells among doctors. But there’s hope: early detection and smart lifestyle choices can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know about this silent threat and how to protect yourself, straight from the experts at the Mayo Clinic.
Colorectal cancer covers two types of cancer: colon cancer, which starts in the large intestine, and rectal cancer, which begins in the rectum, the final stretch of the digestive tract. Dr. Derek Ebner, a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic, points out that while colorectal cancer was once considered a disease of older adults, it’s now hitting younger people hard—especially rectal cancer. “Historically, colon and rectal cancer rates were about even, but in early-onset cases—those diagnosed before age 50—rectal cancer is more common,” Dr. Ebner explains. Data backs this up: a 2023 study in JAMA Oncology found that rectal cancer incidence in adults under 50 has risen by about 2% per year since the early 2000s, outpacing colon cancer in this age group.
So, what’s driving this surge? The answer isn’t simple. Genetics can play a role—conditions like Lynch syndrome increase risk—but lifestyle factors are huge. Diets heavy in processed foods, sedentary habits, and rising obesity rates are all suspects. Smoking and heavy drinking don’t help either. Yet, many young patients have no obvious risk factors, which makes awareness and early detection even more critical. Dr. Ebner stresses, “Knowing the signs of colorectal cancer and seeing a doctor promptly is a vital part of prevention.”
What should you watch for? Dr. Ebner highlights four red flags: abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and iron deficiency anemia. That last one might surprise you. “Even if blood in the stool isn’t obvious, it can lead to low iron levels,” he says. “If a blood test shows iron deficiency, we dig deeper.” These symptoms can feel embarrassing to discuss, but Dr. Ebner urges openness: “Don’t hold back. Telling your doctor about these signs helps them order the right tests and catch problems early.” Early detection is a game-changer—when caught at stage I, colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 90%, according to the American Cancer Society. Delay too long, and that number drops sharply.
Prevention isn’t just about spotting symptoms; it’s about taking action now. The Mayo Clinic outlines five key steps to lower your risk. First, screening is non-negotiable. Regular colonoscopies or stool-based tests can catch precancerous polyps before they turn deadly. For average-risk folks, screening typically starts at 45, but those with family history or symptoms might need to start earlier. Second, get moving—aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily, whether it’s a brisk walk or a gym session. Exercise reduces inflammation and boosts gut health, both of which lower cancer risk. Third, rethink your plate. Load up on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while cutting back on red and processed meats. Studies show that high-fiber diets can reduce colorectal cancer risk by up to 40%. Fourth, keep your weight in check—obesity is linked to a 30% higher risk of the disease. Finally, ditch smoking and limit alcohol. These habits don’t just harm your lungs or liver; they’re directly tied to colorectal cancer.
The emotional weight of this disease can’t be ignored. A diagnosis at a young age, like Boseman’s, feels like a gut punch—not just for the patient but for their loved ones. It’s a reminder to listen to your body and act fast if something feels off. On the flip side, taking control of your health can be empowering. Every step—whether it’s booking a screening or swapping fries for a salad—puts you in the driver’s seat. As Dr. Ebner puts it, “A healthy lifestyle won’t eliminate risk entirely, but it stacks the odds in your favor.”
Colorectal cancer may be on the rise, but it’s not unbeatable. Awareness, early action, and smarter choices can save lives. So, let’s honor those like Chadwick Boseman by taking this disease seriously—because your health is worth fighting for.
This article draws on insights from Dr. Derek Ebner and the Mayo Clinic’s guidance on colorectal cancer prevention, with gratitude for their work in advancing public health.
