new American Cancer Society report shows colorectal cancer is climbing in adults under 50, with Hispanic communities facing faster growth rates and lower screening levels.
LOS ANGELES — Colorectal cancer, once seen largely as a disease of older adults, is rising in younger Americans, and Latino communities are among the hardest hit.
The American Cancer Society’s Colorectal Cancer Statistics, 2026 report found new cases are increasing by 3% a year in adults ages 20 to 49. The disease has now become the leading cause of cancer-related death in young adults.
For Latino families in California, where millions of residents are Hispanic, the findings carry added urgency. Researchers say early-onset colorectal cancer is rising faster in Hispanics than any other racial or ethnic group, increasing about 4% annually.
Nearly 45% of new colorectal cancer cases now occur in adults under age 65, showing how the disease is shifting younger.
Even more concerning, three out of four colorectal cancers diagnosed in adults younger than 50 are found at an advanced stage, when treatment can be harder and outcomes may worsen.
That often happens because younger adults may dismiss symptoms, delay doctor visits, or assume they are too young for colon cancer.
Why Latinos face added risk
The American Cancer Society reports only 52% of Hispanic adults are up to date on recommended screenings, compared with 65% of white adults.
Health experts say the gap is often linked to barriers such as:
- Lack of health insurance
- Language barriers
- Cost concerns
- Difficulty taking time off work
- Lower access to preventive care
- Fear or discomfort about colonoscopy testing
These issues are especially relevant in California and Los Angeles County, where many working families juggle multiple jobs, caregiving, and high living costs.
The American Cancer Society recommends average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Yet fewer than one in five adults ages 45 to 49 were up to date with screening in recent data.
Screening does more than detect cancer early. It can also find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
Common screening options include:
- Colonoscopy
- Stool-based at-home tests
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Other doctor-recommended exams
People with family history, inflammatory bowel disease, or other risk factors may need screening earlier.
Doctors say anyone experiencing these symptoms should talk with a healthcare provider:
- Blood in stool
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing stomach pain or cramping
- Fatigue
- Feeling that the bowel does not fully empty
Many of these symptoms can have non-cancer causes, but ignoring them can delay diagnosis.
Researchers are still studying why younger adults are seeing higher rates, but likely contributors include:
- Diets high in processed foods and red meat
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Alcohol use
- Gut microbiome changes
- Delayed medical care
Public health experts also note that many Latin American countries are seeing similar trends as diets and lifestyles change.
Los Angeles County has one of the nation’s largest Latino populations. That means awareness campaigns, bilingual screening outreach, and affordable preventive care could make a major difference locally.
Community clinics, federally qualified health centers, and county health systems can play a key role by expanding access to testing and follow-up care.
If you are 45 or older and have not been screened, ask a doctor about options. If you are younger and have symptoms or family history, do not wait.
The rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults is serious, but it is also one of the most preventable cancers when caught early.
For many Latino families, the most important step may be the simplest one: start the conversation now.
Q&A:
Why is colorectal cancer rising in young adults?
Researchers believe diet, obesity, inactivity, alcohol use, and delayed care may all play a role, though studies are ongoing.
At what age should colon cancer screening start?
The American Cancer Society recommends screening at age 45 for average-risk adults.
Are Latinos at higher risk?
Latinos are seeing one of the fastest increases in early-onset colorectal cancer and lower screening rates, which can increase risk of late diagnosis.
What are warning signs of colon cancer?
Blood in stool, bowel habit changes, weight loss, stomach pain, and fatigue should be discussed with a doctor.
Can colorectal cancer be prevented?
Many cases can be prevented or caught early through screening, healthy diet, exercise, and timely medical care.
