Colon Cancer Risk Rising Among Young Adults

While the incidence of colorectal cancer has declined among people over 60, it is increasing rapidly in individuals under 50. In 1990, there were around 94,700 global cases of colorectal cancer; by 2019, that number had risen to 225,736.

Interestingly, scientists are not blaming genetics as the main factor behind this rise among young people. Instead, ultra-processed foods are emerging as a major contributor. This was made clear in a study published in 2025. These foods include packaged snacks, ready meals, sugary items, soft drinks, processed meats, and fast food.

A study published in the British Medical Journal investigated the link between ultra-processed food consumption and colorectal cancer risk. Over 46,000 men were tracked for 24 to 28 years. The findings revealed that those who consumed the most ultra-processed foods had a 29% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those who ate the least.

What’s surprising is that this increased risk remained even when accounting for healthy body weight and good nutrition habits. Researchers say that while ultra-processed foods have long been associated with obesity  a known cancer risk factor  the new evidence shows that even people with normal weight are at heightened risk of colorectal cancer if they consume too many processed foods.

Just as it took decades for the world to accept that tobacco causes lung cancer and alcohol increases the risk of breast and liver cancers, experts believe ultra-processed foods may soon be recognized as a leading cause of colorectal cancer  especially among young adults. Many scientists predict this acknowledgment will become widespread within the next decade.

As one expert put it:
"If smoking was the leading cause of cancer in the 20th century, ultra-processed foods might take that place in the 21st."
Although science has not reached a final conclusion yet, new evidence continues to emerge regularly. The old saying goes, “Food is medicine.” Now, science is adding a new layer:
“Food is prevention.”

Colorectal cancer was once seen as a disease of old age and it's still true that most new cases are among those over 70. But that trend is shifting. Certain types of cancer are becoming increasingly common in young adults.

There is some good news, though. A 2025 study found that regular consumption of yogurt may help reduce the risk of colon cancer, a specific type of colorectal cancer. As a result, health experts now recommend reducing intake of ultra-processed foods and including healthy options like yogurt in the daily diet.