Alarming trend shows spike in lower GI cancer deaths among younger adults
Rectal cancer deaths are rising significantly faster than colon cancer deaths among younger adults in the United States, with researchers projecting the trend to worsen through 2035. The increase highlights a growing public health concern regarding lower gastrointestinal cancers in younger populations. Experts emphasize the need for greater awareness, early screening, and further research into potential causes.
- ▪Rectal cancer mortality is increasing more rapidly than colon cancer mortality in younger Americans.
- ▪Researchers project that the trend of rising rectal cancer deaths among younger adults may continue through 2035.
- ▪The spike in lower gastrointestinal cancer deaths is particularly notable in individuals under 55 years old.
- ▪Lifestyle factors, genetics, and environmental influences are being investigated as potential contributors to the increase.
- ▪Health professionals are calling for earlier screening and increased public awareness to address the trend.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Health Newsletter Alarming trend shows spike in lower GI cancer deaths among younger adults And more of this week's top health stories, right to your inbox By Fox News Staff Fox News Published May 1, 2026 2:20pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Top stories→ Rectal cancer deaths rising up to three times faster in specific age group if (window && window.foxstrike && Array.isArray(window.foxstrike.cmd)) { window.foxstrike.cmd.push(function(Strike) { Strike.insertAd('tablet', 'lb2', 'tablet-tw-ad-lb2', ''); }); } else { console.error('Error: window.foxstrike not found'); } if (window && window.foxstrike && Array.isArray(window.foxstrike.cmd)) { window.foxstrike.cmd.push(function(Strike) {…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Fox News.