Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. It is thought to mainly affect older populations, typically considered those aged 50 or above. Recent trends have shown that CRC in patients younger than 50 years old, known as early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), is on the rise while rates of disease in older populations have leveled off or even decreased in many places. This alarming trend is described globally, with a clear relationship between highly developed nations and EOCRC disease burden. More granular disease drivers remain elusive but have been linked to diet, lifestyle, genetic predispositions, and environmental exposure. The clinical, genetic, and histological characteristics of EOCRC imply it is a separate oncologic entity from CRC within older populations. Challenges in management of global EOCRC include standardized clinical guidance, diagnostic consensus, and treatment strategies. Advancements in care have allowed for improved public awareness and disease risk prediction. The pattern of global EOCRC trends represents a significant population health concern, and as such deserves increased attention from clinicians, patients, and the public alike.
扫码关注我们
求助内容:
应助结果提醒方式:
