More young people are getting colorectal cancer — here's what scientists think might be happening
Colorectal cancer rates are declining among older adults while increasing among younger individuals. This trend has raised concerns among healthcare professionals, as younger patients often face late-stage diagnoses. Researchers are investigating potential environmental or lifestyle changes since the 1960s that may contribute to this rise in cases among those under 50.
- ▪Colorectal cancer is now the most common cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. for people under 50.
- ▪In 2026, there were about 158,850 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in the U.S.
- ▪People aged 20 to 49 have seen a 3% increase in colorectal cancer cases each year.
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Health Viruses, Infections & Disease Cancer More young people are getting colorectal cancer — here's what scientists think might be happening People 65 and older are seeing their rates of colorectal cancer drop, but younger people are being felled by a rising number of cases. By Stephanie Pappas published 20 May 2026 in News MEMBER EXCLUSIVE When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Scientists have hypotheses as to why colorectal cancer rates are rising in younger adults while they're falling in older people.
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