ACS 2026 Colorectal Cancer Statistics highlight alarming increase in younger populations
The ACS 2026 report reveals a concerning rise in colorectal cancer among adults under 50, with many cases diagnosed at advanced stages, emphasizing the need for increased screening and lifestyle changes.
Just in time for National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the American Cancer Society has published their Colorectal Cancer Statistics, 2026 report. The findings reveal an alarming increase in colorectal cancer prevalence among younger adults, according to the ACS.
Fewer adults over 65 are being diagnosed with the disease, but colorectal cancer is the top cause of cancer death in patients under 50. The ACS estimates that 200 adults under 65 years of age will be diagnosed per day in 2026.
Additional key findings:
Rectal cancer and cancers in the distal colon are the most common types of colorectal cancer.
Many colorectal cancer cases are caused by lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol.
Several cases and deaths could be prevented by timely screening and treatment access, ACS says.
About three-quarters of cases in adults under 50 are already advanced at the point of diagnosis.
Half of colorectal cancer patients under 50 were eligible for screening at the time of diagnosis.
