Colorectal cancer includes cancers of both the colon and rectum, and it’s one of the leading causes of death from cancer worldwide. It occurs when cells in the inside lining of the colon or rectum begin to grow uncontrollably and form tumors, which have the potential to become malignant. Most colorectal cancers begin as non-cancerous polyps that could become malignant tumors over time if not treated.

Both men and women are susceptible to the disease, and it may have genetic, lifestyle, or environmental underpinnings. Consequently, due to its silent nature in the early stages, colorectal cancer is sometimes termed the “silent killer,” and awareness, early detection, and preventive measures are all components in reducing its impact. See seven facts about it:

1. Prevalence and Mortality

Globally, this is the third most diagnosed cancer and ranks as the second most leading cause of death due to cancer. As noted by the World Health Organization in 2020, it was recorded to have caused more than 930,000 deaths and over 1.9 million new cases of this disease.

2. Age – A Main Risk Factor

The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. Most colorectal cancers are seen in persons above age 50 years, although recent trends show an upward trend in the age group below 50 years. Trends from 2012 to 2021 showed that the rates went up by about 2.4% every year in those below 50.

3. Lifestyle Influences

Several lifestyle factors raise the risk for colorectal cancer. These include a high intake of red and processed meats, low physical activity, obesity, smoking, and high consumption of alcohol. However, dietary factors such as calcium-rich dairy products, foods containing vitamin C, fibre, and whole grains probably confer a protective advantage, says WHO.

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4. Screening Works

Early detection through screening cuts mortality rates significantly in colorectal cancer. The screening methodologies, which include colonoscopies, can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become malignant. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults with average risk start regular screenings at age 45.

5. Genetic Predisposition

A family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic mutations can increase the risk substantially. Inherited conditions, including Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis, confer a high risk for the disease.

6. Newer Diagnostic Techniques

With early detection, this is improving as diagnostic methods become more advanced. Scientists have devised a non-invasive blood test that can determine bowel cancer risk in people who suffer from IBD with a high accuracy rate of over 90%. Specific DNA patterns point to the presence of future cancers, hence cutting down on possibly frequent colonoscopies in cases of high risk.

7. There Are Increasing Incidences with Younger People

Whereas the overall rates of colorectal cancer have decreased among older adults, there is a concerning increase in rates among younger individuals. The contributing factors to this trend are still under investigation but include lifestyle changes, dietary habits, and genetic predispositions. This shift highlights the importance of awareness and timely screening, even in younger demographics.

Understanding these aspects of colorectal cancer is important for its prevention, early detection, and effective treatment. In addition, a healthy lifestyle, awareness of risk factors, and adherence to recommendations for screening will substantially reduce the burden of the disease.