Colorectal cancer: four early warning signs in young people

Colorectal cancer diagnoses have risen among younger adults, and research identifies four early warning signs that can appear months to years before diagnosis: abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and iron‑deficiency anemia.

Actor James Van Der Beek, who disclosed a colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2024, died Wednesday; his official cause of death is currently unknown. His case is noted amid a broader increase in colorectal cancer among younger adults. Health groups report that the share of cases in people younger than 55 rose between 1995 and 2019. Clinicians and researchers have highlighted a set of early signs that can appear months to years before a diagnosis. Key points: - The American Cancer Society reported that colorectal cancer diagnoses in people under 55 increased from 11% of cases in 1995 to 20% in 2019. - Research published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute identified four early warning signs that can precede a colorectal diagnosis: abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and iron‑deficiency anemia. - Experts report incidence has been rising about 1–2% per year since the 1990s and say non‑genetic environmental factors (for example, diet, excess body weight, alcohol and smoking) are likely contributors. - In the U.S., routine screening is generally covered beginning at age 45 for most people, while those with family history or certain conditions may qualify for earlier screening. Summary: The rise in younger‑onset colorectal cancer has drawn attention to a small set of early symptoms that may appear months to years before diagnosis and to screening practices. Undetermined at this time.