Overview
- The American Cancer Society’s latest report finds not only more early-onset diagnoses but also increasing U.S. deaths from colorectal cancer.
- Clinicians note that younger patients often arrive at later stages and tumors can be more aggressive, with warning signs including rectal bleeding, persistent bowel changes, abdominal pain, anemia, weight loss and marked fatigue.
- About one in ten colorectal cancers is now diagnosed before age 50, with some Italian experts reporting roughly one in eight, and projections suggest the disease could lead cancer mortality in people ages 30–50 by 2030.
- In Italy, colorectal cancer accounts for roughly 49,000–50,000 new cases and about 20,000 deaths each year, while overall mortality has generally fallen thanks to screening and better treatments.
- Biennial fecal occult blood testing with follow‑up colonoscopy can prevent many cancers and reduce mortality by an estimated 20–30%, yet participation remains just over 50% in many programs.