Colon cancer in the active duty population

Of the 140,000 cases of colorectal cancer anticipated this year, approximately 2% to 6% will occur in patients less than 40 years old. Data regarding colon cancer in this age group applies directly to the similarly aged active duty population. The problem is illustrated by two case histories. A review of the literature indicates that patients of this age group may have a worse prognosis, not due to age per se, but likely due to a combination of an advanced stage at diagnosis and a higher percentage of poorly differentiated or mucin-producing tumors. Early diagnosis remains essential for improved survival.