LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Rates of colorectal cancer are increasing in people under the age of 50. But new research shows that adults aren’t the only ones affected. Cases are also increasing in children as young as 10 years old.

The CDC studied cases from 1999 to 2020 and found that colorectal cancer increased 500 percent among 10- to 14-year-olds, 333 percent among 15- to 19-year-olds, and 185 percent among 20- to 24-year-olds. years.

“The reality is there are about 49 new cases per day of early-onset colorectal cancer.”

Researchers stress that doctors – and parents – must take this into account. The most important thing is to try to recognize the symptoms early on.

Signs and symptoms vary, but the CDC says the most common are a change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and signs of iron deficiency anemia.

It’s also important to tell other members of your family about any history of cancer, as many of these colorectal cancer symptoms are associated with other cancers.

Obesity, poor diet, insufficient physical activity and certain medications could also be contributing factors.

Typically, colorectal cancer takes five to 10 years for a polyp to turn into cancer. That’s why doctors say it’s surprising that children are increasingly developing this type of cancer at such a young age.

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