Rising Incidence and Mortality of Colorectal Cancer in Young African Adults: Need for a Better Care Plan

Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be a significant cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Global advancements in health and improved quality of life have increased expectations for reduced incidence and mortality of cancers, including CRC. CRC in adults under the age of 50 years is referred to as early-onset CRC. The incidence of CRC among African youths is increasing. Genetic and lifestyle factors, limited awareness of the disease's risk factors, and restricted access to screening and early diagnostic services can predispose young African adults to CRC. Understanding the current state of diagnosis and management of CRC in young African adults is essential for developing treatment modalities that improve patient outcomes. In many parts of Africa, diagnostic capacity and treatment infrastructure remain underdeveloped, leading to late-stage detection and poor outcomes. Although some clinical guidelines tailored to low-resource settings have been introduced, their adoption and the outcomes of their application remain underreported. This review evaluates existing literature to summarize the current state of CRC diagnosis and management in Africa. It examines emerging trends, systemic barriers, and actionable strategies for improving outcomes among young adults. We then propose multi-pronged approaches that adapt to local needs, offering effective management considerations for CRC in young African adults.