Rising Concerns About Colorectal Cancer Among Young People

In the wake of actor James Van Der Beek’s passing after a lengthy fight with colon cancer, health experts are sounding alarms about the increasing prevalence of this disease in younger populations.

Van Der Beek revealed his stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis back in November 2024, although he only learned of it officially in August 2023 after a colonoscopy.

In an August 2025 article with Healthline, he mentioned that a key sign of his colon cancer was changes in bowel habits, which he initially thought were due to his coffee consumption.

Rising Risks

Recent research shows a troubling uptick in colorectal cancer (CRC) cases among younger individuals. In January, a report from the American Cancer Society (ACS) indicated that colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among individuals under 50.

This trend represents a stark contrast to the situation in the 1990s, when colorectal cancer ranked fifth in terms of cancer mortality in the U.S.

While overall cancer fatalities in this age group have decreased since 1990—about 44% less—colorectal cancer remains the only major cancer showing a significant rise in mortality rates among those under 50, according to researchers.

Dr. Aparna Parikh, who leads the Young Adult Colorectal Cancer Center at Mass Comprehensive Cancer Center, explained that the reasons behind the sharp rise are not entirely understood. Factors including genetics, lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and environmental exposures all seem to play a role.

Another ACS study found that heavy, lifelong drinking may also elevate the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Other significant risk factors include obesity, smoking, and diets rich in red or processed meats.

Dr. Mark Siegel, a medical analyst, pointed out that genetics are a factor, but modern diets—particularly those high in ultra-processed foods—are also a pressing concern. He highlighted that individuals consuming a lot of processed meats like hot dogs could be 30% more likely to develop the disease.

Recognizing Red Flags

While early-stage colorectal cancer can be asymptomatic, experts stress that specific changes should not be ignored. Symptoms might encompass abdominal discomfort, fatigue due to anemia, and noticeable shifts in bowel movements.

Professor Eitan Friedman from Sheba Medical Center noted that changes in bowel habits are often pivotal warning signs. He stressed that common symptoms like bloating, gas, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss should be taken seriously.

Many colorectal cancers, as noted by Dr. Erica Burnell, develop quietly without clear symptoms. By the time patients notice anything unusual, the illness may have progressed significantly. This reinforces the importance of regular screenings.

Experts advocate for colonoscopies to spot and remove potentially harmful polyps before they can develop into cancer. Unfortunately, Dr. Burnell pointed out that screening rates in the U.S. fall short of national targets, particularly among rural, low-income, and minority populations.

She emphasized that conversations about bowel health are crucial, stating that awareness and monitoring can lead to early detection—potentially life-saving measures.

Dr. Siegel reinforced the message, advocating for routine colonoscopies as an effective screening method. Early detection could mean the difference between successful treatment and advanced disease.