The rapid surge of colorectal cancer in children and young adults: a 22-year analysis of the CDC WONDER database.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2026

Publication Title

Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Early onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) is rising globally. We analyzed 22 years of US data to identify specific age, gender, and racial/ethnic groups at highest risk.

METHODS: Using the CDC WONDER database (1999-2020), we analyzed CRC incidence in individuals aged 10 to 44. Trends were quantified via annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC) using Joinpoint Regression (v.5.0.2).

RESULTS: The 10- to 14-year age cohort exhibited the most pronounced increase (AAPC 11.25%;

CONCLUSION: The sharp escalation of CRC in pediatric and adolescent populations signals a public health crisis, necessitating increased clinical vigilance and investigation into early life environmental drivers.

Volume

39

Issue

4

First Page

576

Last Page

581

DOI

10.1080/08998280.2026.2659523

ISSN

1525-3252

PubMed ID

42269046

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