Doctors flag concerns on rising colon cancer cases among adults under 50

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The increase in colon or colorectal cancer cases among adults under 50 is concerning, said experts on Sunday.

Colon cancer is becoming a significant health concern in India, ranking as the seventh most common cancer, with higher incidence rates in urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

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According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the age-adjusted incidence rate is approximately 4.3 per 100,000 men and 3.4 per 100,000 women, with colorectal cancer responsible for about 8.2 per cent of all cancer-related deaths in India.

According to experts, factors such as diet, lifestyle, genetics, and environmental influences contribute to the development of this disease.

"Colorectal cancer, once predominantly associated with older populations, is witnessing a worrying surge among younger adults in India. Recent statistics reveal a 20.6 per cent increase in colorectal cancer rates, with a notable rise among those under 50," Dr. Neeraj Dhingra, Consultant Radiation & Clinical Oncology, told IANS.

Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum, part of the digestive tract. It typically begins as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps, which over time can become cancerous.

Historically, colorectal cancer has been more common in individuals aged 50 and above. However, recent studies indicate a significant shift in this trend.

A 2023 study by the Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI) showed that from people above the age of 50, the incidence of colon cancer is now increasingly shifting to young adults between ages 31 to 40 years.

"The increase in cases among adults under 50 is concerning and suggests potential changes in lifestyle, diet, and other risk factors that disproportionately affect younger generations," Dr. Dhingra said.

Early detection of colorectal cancer is crucial for effective treatment and improved survival rates.

Common symptoms include changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation), blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

Dr. Dhingra said that given the rise in cases among younger adults, it is essential for healthcare providers to consider colorectal cancer as a potential diagnosis, even in patients under 50 presenting with these symptoms.

"The five-year survival rate for colon cancer patients in India is between 40-50 per cent, significantly lower than in many Western countries due to late diagnosis and limited access to healthcare," Dr. Jagannath Dixit, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Aster RV Hospital, told IANS.

This alarming trend calls for immediate attention and action from both the medical community and public health policymakers, said the experts.

They called for preventive measures and regular screening to help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

"Prevention strategies include a high-fibre diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are crucial," Dr. Dixit said.

Treatment options range from surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy to targeted therapy and immunotherapy, along with supportive care to manage the physical and emotional impact of the disease, he added.

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