For years, colorectal cancer was considered a disease that mainly affected older adults. But that’s changing — and quickly.
Doctors across the country are seeing more cases in people under 50, including patients in their 30s and even 20s. And because many younger adults don’t think they’re at risk, the disease is often caught later, when it’s harder to treat.
A Real Story — And A Common One
At 35, Deondre Williams thought the blood he noticed was something minor.
“I didn’t go to the doctor regularly because I didn’t have any health concerns,” said Williams, a father of five in Georgia.
Like many younger adults, he assumed it was hemorrhoids — something temporary, not serious.
But when the symptoms didn’t go away, his wife pushed him to see a doctor.
That decision likely saved his life.
Williams was diagnosed with Stage 2 colon cancer in 2017.
Despite having a family history — his father had survived the disease — he said he didn’t recognize the warning signs.
“You don’t have these conversations at the dinner table about your stool,” he said.
A Shift That Has Doctors Concerned
Williams’ story is becoming more common.
He was also among several young survivors featured in a 2023 national report highlighting how people as early as in their 20s and 30s were diagnosed after initially dismissing symptoms.
Data shows colorectal cancer cases among people under 50 have risen significantly. While overall rates are declining due to screening in older adults, younger populations are moving in the opposite direction.
Doctors say the trend is real — even if the exact cause isn’t fully understood.
Why Is This Happening?
Experts point to a combination of modern lifestyle factors:
- Diets high in processed foods and red meat
- Low fiber intake
- Changes in gut bacteria and increased inflammation
- Less physical activity
- Rising obesity rates
There’s also a genetic component in some cases, but it doesn’t explain the full increase.
Why Younger Patients Are Diagnosed Later
One of the biggest risks isn’t just the disease — it’s the delay in recognizing it.
Symptoms are often mistaken for less serious issues like hemorrhoids, stress, or digestive problems.
And because screening typically starts at age 45, cancer in younger adults often isn’t caught early.
That’s why many younger patients are diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is more difficult.
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
Doctors say these warning signs should never be brushed off — at any age:
- Blood in your stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Persistent stomach pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue
Even mild symptoms that don’t go away should be checked.
Who Should Be Getting Screened — And When
The American Cancer Society now recommends screening starting at age 45.
But some people should start earlier:
- Those with a family history
- People with inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome
- Anyone with ongoing symptoms
Screening — especially colonoscopies — can actually prevent cancer by removing precancerous growths.
What’s Keeping Younger People From Acting
Many younger adults still aren’t getting screened or checked.
Common reasons include:
- Fear of the preparation process
- Embarrassment or discomfort
- Lack of awareness
- Believing they’re “too young”
What You Can Do Right Now
Experts say awareness and action are key:
- Know your family history
- Pay attention to changes in your body
- Talk to your doctor about screening
- Stay active and eat a fiber-rich diet
- Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco
A Message From Someone Who’s Been There
Today, Williams has turned his experience into purpose, bringing awareness that colorectal cancer is no longer just an older adult’s disease.
He speaks publicly especially in and around Atlanta.
“I’m grateful for every speaking opportunity. I GET TO impact people’s lives!!”
And as cases rise in younger people, stories like Deondre Williams’ serve as both a warning — and a reminder.
Sometimes the symptoms seem small.
But ignoring them can have life-changing consequences.
Readers can follow Williams’ advocacy work on his
Facebook page: Deondre “Mr. Phoenix” WilliamsSources:MD Anderson Cancer Center; Titilayo Adegboyega, MD, Colon and Rectal Surgery, Northwell Health