Scientists from the Regenstrief Institute have identified seven risk factors for early colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) in men under the age of 49. Research published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research.
The researchers analyzed data from 600 men with nonhereditary colorectal cancer, as well as 2,400 healthy men. All participants were U.S. veterans aged 35 to 49.
Initially, the researchers found 15 variants associated with early-onset colorectal cancer, but later narrowed the list down to seven risk factors that are easier to use in medical practice.
These include advanced age, low socioeconomic status, chronic illness, alcohol use, and first- or second-degree relatives with colorectal cancer.
The risk of colorectal cancer was slightly lower in men taking statins (medicines that lower blood cholesterol levels) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin or ibuprofen). Therefore, scientists have also linked not taking these drugs to risk factors for early colorectal cancer among men.
The risk of colorectal cancer in men in any age group is twice that of women. In recent years, the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer has been decreasing in people aged 50 and over, probably due to the widespread use of screening programs. At the same time, the incidence is increasing in people under 50 years of age.
Scientists say men under 45 who identify risk factors should consider a non-invasive screening test, such as a stool occult blood test.
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