If you had to guess, what would you think are the top concerns college students have regarding their health? Poor sleep, academic stress, substance use, mental health, the list goes on. Chances are, college students aren’t worried about colorectal cancer, but staying informed is important.
If you need a refresher on human anatomy, your colon is the first and largest part of your large intestine. Its primary role is to process the liquid food waste from your stomach and small intestine, turning it into solid waste so that it can be expelled from your body. According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cancer (also referred to as colorectal cancer) begins as little clumps of cells called polyps that grow on the walls of the colon. These polyps can be relatively harmless in most instances, but in some cases, they can become cancerous.
Cancer cases in individuals younger than 50 have been on the rise in the past few decades. A January 2026 report from the American Cancer Society has now revealed that colon cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths in people under the age of 50. American actors James Van Der Beek and Chadwick Boseman both passed from the disease in their 40s (Van Der Beek passed in February 2026 at the age of 48, and Boseman passed away in 2020 at the age of 43).
Awareness of the rising prevalence of colon cancer is one thing; knowing how to prevent it is another. Colorectal cancer is typically detected and diagnosed through a procedure called a colonoscopy. The American Cancer Society and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) both suggest that individuals get periodic colonoscopies starting at age 45.
However, there are things you can do now that can dramatically reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer in later adulthood. First, improve your diet. Eating healthy in college is hard, but little steps make a big impact. The American Cancer Society suggests including fruits, vegetables, whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, wheat bread), and fiber (beans, apples, bananas) into your diet. Regular exercise can also reduce your risk of developing polyps in the future.
While it may be uncomfortable to discuss your bowel movements with a medical professional, it is very important to pay attention when something is wrong and bring it up to your doctor as soon as possible. While researchers are still unsure as to why colorectal cancer is on the rise in younger individuals, it is easier to treat when detected early. When in doubt, eat your fruits and veggies, and talk to your doctor when you need medical advice. Stay healthy, Bucs!
