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Updated: Oct 5, 2025

Evaluation of Colorectal Cancer Risk and Prevalence by Stool DNA Integrity Detection
Published on: June 8, 2020
A comprehensive framework for early-onset colorectal cancer research
Cathy Eng1, Alexandre A Jácome2, Rajiv Agarwal1
1Division of Hematology and Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
Early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) is rising in young adults. This review explores potential causes, including energy balance and genetics, and discusses psychosocial and financial challenges for younger CRC patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) traditionally affects older individuals.
- A significant increase in CRC diagnoses in individuals under 50 is projected globally.
- Early-onset CRC (EOCRC) requires greater clinical and research attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the potential causes of EOCRC.
- To examine the role of energy balance, biological, and genomic factors in EOCRC.
- To address the psychosocial and financial challenges faced by young EOCRC patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of existing data on EOCRC.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends and risk factors.
- Inclusion of psychosocial and economic impact assessments.
Main Results:
- The rise in EOCRC is likely multifactorial with unknown primary causes.
- Energy balance, microbiome, and genomic alterations are potential contributors.
- Psychosocial distress and financial toxicity are significant concerns for young patients.
Conclusions:
- Understanding EOCRC's multifactorial etiology is crucial.
- Addressing the unique challenges of EOCRC is vital for improving patient outcomes.
- Further research is needed to optimize EOCRC prevention and treatment strategies.
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