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Colorectal Cancer Surges in Under-50s: Screening Urged

2/16/2026

49 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Colorectal cancer now increasingly affects people under 50, becoming the leading cause of cancer death in that group.
Since 1990, overall cancer death rates for under-50s have fallen 44%, even as cases rise among people in their 20s to 40s.
The American Cancer Society recommends starting screening at age 45.
Noninvasive tests such as Cologuard and Shield require follow-up colonoscopies for confirmation.

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Story summary

Colorectal cancer now increasingly affects people under 50, becoming the leading cause of cancer death in that group.
Since 1990, overall cancer death rates for under-50s have fallen 44%, even as cases rise among people in their 20s to 40s.
The American Cancer Society recommends starting screening at age 45.
Noninvasive tests such as Cologuard and Shield require follow-up colonoscopies for confirmation.