A new American Cancer Society report reveals colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in adults under 50, with cases rising 3% annually among those aged 20-49. The disease now accounts for 45% of all new diagnoses, up from 27% in 1995, as rectal cancer cases increase to one-third of all diagnoses.

Among adults 50 and under, 75% of colorectal cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages, with half of diagnoses occurring between ages 45 and 49. Despite eligibility for routine screenings at age 45, only 37% of this age group participates. The report projects 158,850 new cases and 55,230 deaths this year.

Researchers attribute more than half of cases to high-risk behaviors including poor nutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of exercise, and obesity. When caught at local stages, the five-year survival rate reaches 95%. Experts emphasize the urgent need for increased screening and research funding to understand the rising trend and develop new treatments.