KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• Early detection is key: Regular screenings, like colonoscopies starting at age 45, are crucial for preventing colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer.
• Lifestyle matters: A smoke-free lifestyle, fiber-rich healthy diet, exercise and minimal alcohol consumption significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Rising cases in younger adults: Processed foods and environmental factors may contribute to the increasing rates of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50.
SUMMARY:
An expert dives into the essentials of colorectal cancer, including its causes, symptoms and prevention strategies. The highlight the importance of early detection through screenings, share insights on lifestyle changes to reduce risk and discuss the concerning rise of colorectal cancer in younger adults.
Meet Our Expert: Erica Bowen, PA-C
Erica began her career as a unit clerk/PSA at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and later earned her associate’s degree in surgical technology from Columbus State University. She later completed her bachelor’s at Kettering College of Medical Arts, graduating with honors from their PA program in 2004. As Ohio expanded PA prescribing rights, Erica pursued her master’s at A.T. Still University and is now completing her Doctor of Medical Science there. With experience in various surgical specialties, she’s been part of the colorectal surgery team since 2016.
What is colorectal cancer, and how is it different from colon cancer?
Colon and rectal cancers — often referred to together as colorectal cancer — develop in the soft tissue of the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Both cancers typically begin as polyps or overgrowths of tissue. Screening colonoscopies are so important to ensure we can remove the polyp before it turns into cancer.
Although they are all part of the same system, colon cancer is different than rectal cancer and they are both different than anal cancer. Most anal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, originating from the human papillomavirus (HPV). Anal cancer, like rectal cancer, may require chemotherapy and radiation before surgery.
What are the early symptoms of colorectal cancer that people should watch for?
Both colon and rectal cancer can be present without any symptoms. However, once the tumor has grown, patients may experience changes in bowel habits like new onset constipation or diarrhea, dark tar-like stools, blood with bowel movements, unexplained weight loss and new onset anemia (low red blood count or low hemoglobin).
What causes colorectal cancer, and is it hereditary?
The chances of developing colon or rectal cancer increase as we age, and can occur because of family genetics, poor dietary and exercise habits, smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Some colon cancers can develop from chronic inflammatory changes that occur from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Not all colorectal cancers are hereditary, but some are. The current recommendations are that patients have their first colonoscopy at age 45 or sooner if there is a family history of colon or rectal cancer.
How common is colorectal cancer, and why is it on the rise in younger people?
Colon cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimated that in 2025 alone, there would be 154,000 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in the USA. Staggering new data show that one in five people diagnosed with colorectal cancer is under the age of 55.
There is yet to be a definitive answer to why we are seeing so many younger people (under age 50) diagnosed with colon or rectal cancers. The current, most popular theory being studied is that highly processed foods and food preservatives challenge the colon’s natural immune defense system, leaving it susceptible to chemicals and free radicals (cancer-producing molecules in food and the environment).
How can someone reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer?
The best defense against colon and rectal cancers is exercise and a healthy diet consisting of minimal alcohol consumption, high fiber foods, less red meat and minimal processed foods. Early detection is key.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer?
If a patient has been diagnosed with a colon or rectal or anal cancer, it is important for them to keep up a healthy diet, try to minimize stressors, get plenty of sleep, and keep their follow up appointments with all their specialists.
Get to know the expert
Describe yourself in three words.
Helpful, friendly and caring.
What motivates you to provide exceptional care?
Regardless of who my patients are — young or old, CEO or delivery driver — we all need help. When I need help, I hope that someone is willing to give all they can to help me. I want to be that person for each patient that comes my way.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like gardening, crafting, horseback riding, playing with my animals, hiking and fishing — just being outside to enjoy nature in all facets.
If you are concerned about your colon health, contact your primary care doctor to discuss your symptoms. Need a primary care doctor? Check out our Find a Doctor tool.
