The mortality rate of early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) in the United States has been increasing over the past two decades, particularly in those aged 20-44 years. Data from the CDC and SEER databases show rising rates of EO-CRC, prompting a recommendation to lower the screening age to 45 years. Younger patients may not be getting diagnosed early due to delayed presentation and testing. Future research is needed to understand why young adults are experiencing an uptick in EO-CRC mortality and how to improve outcomes. There is a need for evidence-based ways to identify younger individuals at higher risk.
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