About this episode
Episode 183: Colorectal Cancer in Young AdultsFuture Dr. Avila and Dr. Arreaza present evidence-based information about the screening and diagnosis of colorectal cancer and explain the increasing incidence among young adult and the importance to screen early in high risk groups. Written by Jessica Avila, MS4, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Edits and comments by Hector Arreaza, MD.You are listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast, your weekly dose of knowledge brought to you by the Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program from Bakersfield, California, a UCLA-affiliated program sponsored by Clinica Sierra Vista, Let Us Be Your Healthcare Home. This podcast was created for educational purposes only. Visit your primary care provider for additional medical advice.IntroductionJessica: Although traditionally considered a disease only affecting older adults, colorectal cancer (CRC) has increasingly impacted younger adults (defined as those under 50) at an alarming rate. According to the American Cancer Society, CRC is now the leading cause of cancer-related death in men under 50 and the second leading cause in women under 50 (American Cancer Society, 2024). Arreaza: Why were you motivated to talk about CRC in younger patients?Jessica: Because despite advancements in early detection and treatment, younger patients are often diagnosed at later stages, resulting in poorer outcomes. We will discuss possible causes, risk factors, common symptoms, and why early screening and prevention are important. Arreaza: This will be a good reminder for everyone to screen for colorectal cancer because 1 out of every 5 cases of colorectal cancer occur in adults between the ages of 20 and 54. The Case of Chadwick BosemanJessica: Many people know Chadwick Boseman from his role as T'Challa in Black Panther. His story highlights the worrying trend of increasing CRC in young adults. He was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer at age 39. This diagnosis was not widely known until he passed away at 43. His case shows how silent and aggressive young-onset CRC can be. Like many young adults with CRC, his symptoms may have been missed or thought to be less serious issues. His death drew widespread attention to the rising burden of CRC among young adults and emphasized the critical need for increased awareness and early screening efforts.Arreaza: Black Panther became a hero not only in the movie, but also in real life, because he raised awareness of the problem in young AND in Black adults. EpidemiologyJessica: While rates of CRC in older populations have decreased since the 1990s, adults under 50 have seen an increase in CRC rates of nearly 50%. (Siegel et al., 2023). Currently, one in five new CRC diagnoses occurs in individuals younger than 55 (American Cancer Society, 2024).Arr
