What do you think causes colorectal cancer in younger people?

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The rising rates of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), which occurs in people under 50, are unlikely to be caused by changes in human genetics—since our genes haven’t changed much since the 1960s. Instead, the cause may lie in all the environmental factors we’re exposed to throughout life, such as diet, pollution, lifestyle, and chemicals.

This project will compare colorectal cancers across different time periods, from the 1950s to now to try to understand which environmental exposures are relevant for the increasing rates of early onset colorectal cancer.

We think that there may be specific exposures that are causing early-onset colorectal cancer and by looking back in time, when this was uncommon, we can understand what has changed. If we can identify the causes then we can make recommendations on prevention methods or treatment.

To test for these exposures, scientists will be looking at all the areas listed in the box on the right hand side of the page. At this early stage in the project the team want to gather input from patients and the public to support and inform this work.

How can you get involved? Can you answer these questions?

  • What environmental or lifestyle changes do you think may have contributed to the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer?
  • Are there specific aspects of lifestyle or environmental exposure that you think should be prioritised in this research?

Please add your thoughts to the discussion forum below.

The rising rates of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), which occurs in people under 50, are unlikely to be caused by changes in human genetics—since our genes haven’t changed much since the 1960s. Instead, the cause may lie in all the environmental factors we’re exposed to throughout life, such as diet, pollution, lifestyle, and chemicals.

This project will compare colorectal cancers across different time periods, from the 1950s to now to try to understand which environmental exposures are relevant for the increasing rates of early onset colorectal cancer.

We think that there may be specific exposures that are causing early-onset colorectal cancer and by looking back in time, when this was uncommon, we can understand what has changed. If we can identify the causes then we can make recommendations on prevention methods or treatment.

To test for these exposures, scientists will be looking at all the areas listed in the box on the right hand side of the page. At this early stage in the project the team want to gather input from patients and the public to support and inform this work.

How can you get involved? Can you answer these questions?

  • What environmental or lifestyle changes do you think may have contributed to the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer?
  • Are there specific aspects of lifestyle or environmental exposure that you think should be prioritised in this research?

Please add your thoughts to the discussion forum below.

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  • What environmental or lifestyle changes do you think may have contributed to the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer?

    9 days ago
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    Are there specific aspects of lifestyle or environmental exposure that you think should be prioritised in this research?

Page last updated: 30 May 2025, 12:17 PM