health
February 14, 2026
What is colorectal cancer and is it preventable?
Cases among younger people are rising – such as with actor James Van Der Beek, who died on 11 February at age 48
TL;DR
- Colorectal cancer, encompassing colon and rectal cancers, is the third most common cancer worldwide.
- While overall rates are declining, cases among younger people (under 50) are rising significantly.
- Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, a diet high in processed and red meats, and chronic inflammation.
- Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome can increase hereditary risk.
- Symptoms may include blood in stool, changes in bowel patterns, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
- Screening, recommended to start at age 45 in the US, is vital for early detection and prevention by removing polyps.
- Colorectal cancer is highly curable, with cure rates exceeding 90% for stage 1 diagnoses.
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