Researchers at the Regenstrief Institute identified seven risk factors for early colorectal cancer in men younger than 49. The findings appeared in Cancer Prevention Research and were based on an analysis of U.S. veterans aged 35 to 49 who did not have hereditary colorectal cancer. The team compared 600 men with early-onset colorectal cancer to 2,400 healthy peers to uncover meaningful patterns that could inform clinical practice.
From an initial list of 15 potential variants, the investigators honed in on seven factors that clinicians can more easily apply in everyday medical care. These factors include older age within the under-50 group, lower socioeconomic status, the presence of chronic illnesses, alcohol consumption, and having first- or second-degree relatives with colorectal cancer. The researchers emphasize that recognizing these factors can help identify men at higher risk and prompt timely screening discussions.
In addition, the study found that the use of certain medications may influence risk. Men who were taking statins to manage cholesterol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen tended to have a somewhat lower risk profile. Conversely, not using these drugs was linked with higher risk factors for early colorectal cancer in men, suggesting a potential protective association that warrants further investigation.
Overall, colorectal cancer incidence in men is higher than in women across all ages. Recent trends show a decline in both incidence and mortality among people aged 50 and older, likely due to widespread screening programs. At the same time, an uptick in rates is observed among younger men, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection strategies tailored to younger populations.
Healthcare professionals advise that men under 45 who identify multiple risk factors should consider noninvasive screening options. A stool occult blood test is one such option that can be discussed with a clinician to determine next steps in surveillance or diagnostic testing.
The findings align with a growing emphasis on proactive risk assessment and personalized screening approaches, particularly for men who carry several risk indicators. By combining family history, health status, and lifestyle factors, clinicians can better tailor recommendations to individual risk profiles while encouraging timely conversations about colorectal health with patients in the United States and Canada. This approach may help bridge gaps in early detection and improve outcomes for younger adults at risk.