A recent increase in colon cancer cases among younger adults has prompted the Texas Medical Association (TMA) to encourage discussions about colorectal screening with physicians. The organization has released a new one-page guide aimed at raising awareness and informing people about colorectal cancer, a topic that some may find difficult to address.
The guide is available in both English and Spanish, as well as a version for physicians, on the TMA cancer web page. According to Andy Chen, MD, a member of the TMA Committee on Cancer, “We want to raise awareness of signs and symptoms, so patients know when to seek care. We want to emphasize the importance of knowing one’s own risk – knowing one’s own family history and knowing the big contributing factors. Most importantly, we want to promote early detection and early screening.”
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum—parts of the large intestine—and often begins as benign polyps that can become cancerous over time. In both Texas and across the United States, it ranks as the third most diagnosed cancer among men and women and is the second leading cause of cancer death overall. Projections indicate it could become the leading cause of cancer deaths for individuals aged 20 to 49 by 2030.
Since 2011, cases among people under age 50 have risen by two percent annually. Mortality rates for this group have also increased by one percent each year since 2005. Dr. Chen described this trend as an “alarming increase in colorectal cancer in young people.” He added, “The saddest part about taking care of young cancer patients is seeing the delayed diagnosis and delayed treatment because of their young age.”
The TMA guide emphasizes that colonoscopy remains unique among screening methods because it allows physicians not only to detect but also prevent cancer by removing pre-cancerous polyps during the procedure.
Physicians are urging those with symptoms associated with colorectal cancer—including changes in bowel habits or other warning signs—to consult their doctors about possible screening.
Preventive steps highlighted in the patient guide include avoiding tobacco use, maintaining physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, increasing intake of high-fiber foods, and reducing red meat consumption.
Dr. Chen stressed that early detection is crucial: “I hope after reading this one-pager, people will be encouraged to talk to their physicians about colorectal cancer screening,” he said.
TMA represents more than 59,000 physician and medical student members statewide through its Austin headquarters and network of county medical societies. Since its founding in 1853, its primary goal has been improving health outcomes for Texans.
