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The Urgent Need to Address Modifiable Risk Factors to Prevent Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer in Mexico
Luis A Márquez-Licona1, Miguel A Pardiño-Vega2, Norma E Herrera-Gonzalez2
1Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, MEX.
Cureus
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is rising in Mexico, especially in younger adults, due to lifestyle changes. Addressing obesity, diet, and other modifiable factors is crucial for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death globally.
- Traditionally a disease of older adults, CRC incidence and mortality are increasing in younger populations, particularly in Latin America.
- Mexico shows a disproportionate rise in CRC among those under 50.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of CRC epidemiology in Mexico.
- To emphasize early-onset CRC and associated modifiable lifestyle risk factors.
- To analyze trends in incidence and mortality.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of epidemiological studies.
- Inclusion of population-based reports and regional case-control analyses.
- Focus on data from Mexico over the last two decades.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in CRC incidence and mortality observed in Mexico.
- A disproportionate rise in CRC affects adults under 50 years.
- Key risk factors identified: obesity, sedentary behavior, high red/processed meat intake, alcohol, and smoking.
Conclusions:
- CRC in Mexico signifies an epidemiological transition driven by lifestyle changes and social inequities.
- Modifiable risk factors are strongly linked to increased CRC risk.
- Prevention strategies targeting lifestyle changes are essential to reduce the CRC burden, especially in younger populations.
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