Colorectal cancer incidence among adults aged 20 to 49 is rising by 3% per year, according to a September 14 report from the Huntsman Cancer Institute. This trend is particularly notable as cases in people under the age of 54 now account for one in five colorectal cancer cases.
Dr. Neli Ulrich, the chief scientific officer at Huntsman Cancer Institute and executive director of the Cancer Center, noted that while colorectal cancer rates are declining in older adults, they are rising rapidly in those under 50. Research is currently underway to determine the cause of this shift, with hypotheses including changes in diet, increased sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and environmental factors such as PFAS. While genetics remain stable, researchers are investigating whether the microbiome or other external factors play a role.
One such research effort is the ColoCare study, an international cohort study involving more than 4,300 patients across seven sites. The study examines how patients can improve health and survivorship by analyzing blood, stool, and tissue samples. Preliminary findings from the study indicated higher levels of oxidative stress in early onset patients compared to those diagnosed at a later age.
Greg Barton, a 31-year-old Utah resident, shared his experience of being diagnosed with stage 4c colon cancer in September 2025. Despite leading an active lifestyle, Barton was diagnosed after experiencing nondescript symptoms such as cramping and changes in bowel movements. He is currently participating in a clinical trial for a drug called petosemtamob, a next-generation EGFR inhibitor.
In July 2026, Barton underwent cytoreductive surgery performed by Dr. Clark Gamblin to remove metastasis from his peritoneum. Following the procedure and ongoing treatment, he has shown no signs of cancer in the peritoneum.
Medical experts emphasize the importance of not ignoring gastrointestinal symptoms, such as unusual discomfort or bleeding, as early diagnosis is critical. Because cancers in younger patients often grow more rapidly, delaying medical evaluation can lead to later-stage diagnoses, such as stage three or stage four, where the disease has already spread.
