[Anchor]

Recently, colorectal cancer patients in their 20s and 30s have been increasing significantly. Reports indicate that the number has more than doubled compared to five years ago. Because colorectal cancer has no special symptoms in its early stages, it is easy to overlook. We take a closer look at the warning signs and preventive methods.

[Reporter]

According to recently released National Cancer Registration Statistics, the number of newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients aged 20 to 39 surged by over 125% in five years, jumping from 864 in 2018 to 1,948 in 2023.

Compared to a 42.9% increase for those in their 40s and a 9.8% increase for those in their 50s over the same period, the rise among people in their 20s and 30s is exceptionally steep.

Of course, the absolute number of patients remains much higher among middle-aged and older adults. However, the real problem is that people in their 20s and 30s do not even think they could possibly have colorectal cancer in the first place.

Given their young age, combined with the fact that colorectal cancer itself has no distinct symptoms in the early stages, it is easily brushed aside.

Looking at the symptoms, they include unexplained abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, alternating constipation and diarrhea, anemia, fatigue, and weight loss.

Moreover, when people in their 20s and 30s see bright red blood on toilet paper due to rectal bleeding, most of them think, "Was it because of what I ate yesterday?" or "Is it hemorrhoids?"

[Seo Ji-hyun / Professor of Surgery, Inha University Hospital: Lately, there are cases where people simply assume it is hemorrhoids, only to come in for an examination and find cancer. Of course, hemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding in young patients. However, the important thing is that hemorrhoids are not the only cause of rectal bleeding.]

Why is it suddenly increasing specifically among people in their 20s and 30s?

[Seo Ji-hyun / Professor of Surgery, Inha University Hospital: There is considerable and clear evidence linking processed meats like ham, sausages, and bacon to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Conversely, studies have shown that fiber-rich diets containing vegetables, fruits, and whole grains lower the risk. The problem is that frequently eating foods like processed meats reduces health-promoting substances produced by beneficial gut bacteria, creating an environment that can cause inflammation or irritation in the intestines. When these changes are repeated over a long period, it can create a favorable environment for colorectal cancer to develop. Poor dietary habits increase obesity rates, and a lack of exercise also increases obesity rates, meaning that if the gut environment becomes unhealthy as a result, you can connect this to an increased risk of occurrence.]

Given this situation, the current target group for colorectal cancer screening under the national health examination is "men and women aged 50 and older."

The government lowered the screening age this year, but even then, it is 45.

[Seo Ji-hyun / Professor of Surgery, Inha University Hospital: Healthy individuals in their 20s do not need to undergo regular colonoscopies without any symptoms simply because there is a lot of youth colorectal cancer these days. Compared to before, if different or unusual symptoms repeat or persist, it is important to accurately check the cause. Since a single symptom alone cannot determine that it is cancer, if you have symptoms or changes in your bowel habits compared to before, you should consult a doctor first, and proceed with a colonoscopy if deemed necessary based on the doctor's judgment.]

Then, instead of getting a colonoscopy right away, what should people do to prevent colorectal cancer in their daily lives?

[Seo Ji-hyun / Professor of Surgery, Inha University Hospital: The most realistic preventive method for young people in their 20s and 30s is lifestyle management. First, reduce excessive consumption of processed meats. Second, consume adequate amounts—not too much, but adequate amounts—of dietary fiber such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Third, exercise regularly and maintain an appropriate weight. Fourth, quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.]