Article Title: Risk Factors for early-onset colorectal cancer: a population-based case-control study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Chang V. C., Cotterchio M., De P., and Tinmouth [Jun 2021]
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8416813/ (see pdf attached below)
The reason I chose this article is due to the news that colorectal cancer is now the #1 cancer-related death in those younger than 50 years old, and the fact that more young adults are having cases of colorectal cancer recently, which is very concerning.
This is a population-based case–control study that evaluated medical, lifestyle, and dietary risk factors associated with early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) in adults aged 20–49 years. The study included 175 EO-CRC cases and 253 age-matched controls without CRC, all of whom completed detailed self-reported online questionnaires regarding family history, medical conditions, lifestyle behaviors, diet, medication, and supplement use, and prior medical procedures (e.g., CT scans). The study found that EO-CRC was strongly associated with family history of colorectal cancer, particularly among individuals with 1st or 2nd degree relatives and those with relatives diagnosed before age 50. Medical and lifestyle factors associated with increased odds included type 2 diabetes, smoking and second-hand smoke exposure, prolonged sedentary behavior, and having three or more prior CT scans. Dietary patterns high in sugary drinks, sugary desserts, fast food, processed snacks, and artificial sweeteners were also associated with higher odds of EO-CRC. Protective factors included calcium supplement use, higher vegetable and water intake, a history of allergy or asthma, and higher parity in women. There were no significant associations found with fiber intake, red meat consumption, alcohol use, or NSAID/aspirin use. Overall, this study suggests that early-onset colorectal cancer is associated with both genetic predisposition and modifiable lifestyle and dietary factors. While most findings represent associations rather than causation, the results highlight the importance of early risk assessment, lifestyle counseling, and consideration of earlier screening in younger patients with multiple risk factors.
PDF Version of Article
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