Colon Cancer Now Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths Among Americans Under 50

New analysis finds colorectal cancer has surpassed other cancers as the top killer for those under 50 in the U.S.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:33am

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A new report from the American Cancer Society has found that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans under the age of 50. The analysis shows that roughly three-quarters of patients under 50 are already diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer, often because they dismiss early symptoms or do not receive routine screening. Experts suspect dietary and lifestyle factors may be contributing to the rise in younger age groups, while rates continue to decline among older adults.

Why it matters

This shift in the leading cause of cancer deaths for younger Americans is concerning, as colorectal cancer is often treatable if caught early. The findings highlight the need for greater awareness of colorectal cancer symptoms, especially among younger adults, as well as the importance of regular screening tests to detect the disease in its early stages.

The details

The report found that colorectal cancer has moved from the fifth leading cause of cancer death to the number one spot among Americans under 50. Experts say the rise is likely due to a combination of factors, including a lack of routine screening and a tendency for younger adults to dismiss early warning signs like rectal bleeding, which they often attribute to hemorrhoids. Additionally, shifts in diet and lifestyle, such as higher consumption of processed meats and heavily processed foods, may be contributing to the increase in diagnoses among younger populations.

  • The new analysis was published on March 13, 2026.
  • Becca Lynch, a 29-year-old from Denver, was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer last year.
  • Cass Costley, who shared her colon cancer symptoms in a video that inspired Lynch to seek medical attention, died from the disease in 2024 at the age of 38.

The players

Becca Lynch

A 29-year-old woman from Denver who was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer last year.

Cass Costley

A 38-year-old woman who died from colon cancer in 2024 after sharing her symptoms in a video that inspired Becca Lynch to seek medical attention.

Rebecca Siegel

The lead author of the analysis and senior director of cancer surveillance research at the American Cancer Society.

American Cancer Society

The organization that conducted the analysis finding that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans under 50.

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What they’re saying

“Becca Lynch's story is very common. Roughly three-quarters of patients under 50 already have advanced colorectal cancer when they are diagnosed.”

— Rebecca Siegel, Senior director of cancer surveillance research at the American Cancer Society (gazettereview.com)

“Anyone who notices rectal bleeding that lasts longer than a couple of weeks should get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.”

— Rebecca Siegel, Senior director of cancer surveillance research at the American Cancer Society (gazettereview.com)

What’s next

Researchers are still working to understand the underlying reasons for the rise in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger adults, with a focus on potential dietary and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the trend.

The takeaway

This shift in the leading cause of cancer deaths for younger Americans underscores the importance of increased awareness and early detection of colorectal cancer, especially among those under 50. Regular screening and prompt medical attention for any persistent symptoms can help improve outcomes and save lives.