Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: Current Insights

Abstract

Over the past decade, the incidence of colorectal cancer has increased in individuals under the age of 50 years. Meanwhile, the incidence has gradually decreased in the older population. As described herein, we reviewed the available literature to summarize the current landscape of early-onset colorectal cancer, including risk factors, clinicopathological presentation, genetic makeup of patients, and management. Currently, early-onset colorectal cancer is treated similarly as late-onset colorectal cancer, yet the available literature shows that early-onset colorectal cancer is more aggressive and different, and this remains a significant unmet need. A detailed understanding of early-onset colorectal cancer is needed to identify risk factors for the increased incidence and tailor treatments accordingly.

Sexual Functioning and Impact on Quality of Life in Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review

“…In this systematic review, EOCRC was defined as colorectal cancer diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50. This definition aligns with emerging research trends and clinical observations indicating a distinct epidemiological pattern and clinical presentation in younger patients compared to their older counterparts [4]. The choice of this age cutoff was based on the intention to explore and identify the specific challenges and outcomes faced by this particular demographic group.…”

“…The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) among younger adults has been on the rise globally, presenting unique challenges in management and survivorship [1,2]. Traditionally considered a disease of older adults, the increasing trend of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), defined as CRC diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50, has garnered significant attention in the medical community [3,4]. Epidemiological studies have indicated a steady increase in EOCRC prevalence across diverse populations, suggesting the need for focused research on its implications.…”

Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: Are Neuroendocrine Tumors or Adenocarcinomas the Culprit? Analysis of the Largest U.S. Cancer Incidence Database, 2001–2020

“…Interestingly, half of the cases diagnosed with early-onset CRC are sporadic, without associated hereditary syndromes or familial CRC [12]. There is increasing evidence to suggest that early-onset CRC is distinct from late-onset CRC, not only in terms of age of presentation but also in terms of clinical manifestation, location, and histopathological characteristics [13,14]. This has prompted researchers to consider early-onset CRC as a unique entity, with a gap in the literature as to the histopathological subtype that may be contributing to its rising incidence [15,16].…”