After decades of decline, colorectal cancer mortality rates are increasing among young, white adults, according to new research published by JAMA.
Researchers examined colorectal cancer mortality among adults 20 to 54 years old by race from 1970 to 2014 using public data obtained from the National Cancer Institute. Their findings show mortality declined for decades until 2004, when it began increasing 1 percent annually. Their research also indicated the increase was confined to white individuals.
Here are the key findings:
- Colorectal cancer mortality rates declined from 6.3 deaths per 100,000 people in 1970 to 3.9 deaths per 100,000 in 2004.
- This trend began to reverse, increasing 1 percent annually so that colorectal cancer mortality reached 4.3 deaths per 100,000 in 2014.
- However, the increase in mortality was confined to white individuals only — mortality among black individuals actually declined 0.4 percent annually during the 2004-2014 time period.
- The greatest increase observed was among white individuals aged 40 to 49. In this age group, colorectal cancer mortality increased 1.9 percent annually from 1995 to 2014.
- These increases were observed despite otherwise similar risk factors across races, like obesity.
"Escalating mortality rates in young and middle-aged adults highlight the need for earlier CRC detection through age-appropriate screening and more timely follow-up of symptoms," the authors conclude.
More articles on population health:
Trump administration looks to cut funds for pregnancy prevention programs
BCBS analyzes effects of diabetes on commercially insured population: 5 key findings
NIH releases initial research plan for 'All of Us' project