Colorectal cancer statistics, 2026
- Study type
- Other
- Study name
- Colorectal cancer statistics, 2026
- Design
- Epidemiological statistical report based on data from population-based cancer registries (incidence) and the US National Center for Health Statistics (mortality)
- Sample size
- Not stated in the abstract of the paper
- Source
- CA A Cancer J Clinicians · 2026
In plain words
This report shows that bowel (colorectal) cancer has become less common in people over 65, but is increasing in younger adults, especially under 50 and also aged 50 to 64. Deaths are also rising in people under 65. Early diagnosis through screening and paying attention to symptoms, even at younger ages, can help. Younger patients should also talk to their doctor about protecting fertility and sexual health.
Key results
Study population
The US population; incidence based on population-based cancer registries and mortality based on data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Trends are reported for different age groups (20 to 49 years, 50 to 64 years, 65 years and older).
Endpoints
Trends in colorectal cancer incidence (2013 to 2022) and mortality by age group, tumour site (distal colon and rectum) and stage at diagnosis.
Safety and side effects
This study is a statistical report with no treatment intervention, so treatment adverse events were not assessed.
Clinical significance and place in guidelines
Based on the abstract, the burden of colorectal cancer has shifted towards younger and middle-aged adults, and rectal cancer makes up a larger share of cases. The authors emphasise earlier diagnosis through screening, educating clinicians and the public about symptoms, and attention to the needs of younger patients (including fertility preservation and sexual health). This paper is a statistical report and the abstract gives no new clinical recommendations or screening guidance; the status of screening guidelines should be checked separately. The data relate to the United States, and their generalisation to other countries cannot be inferred from the abstract.
Limitations
Based on the abstract, this report is descriptive and based on population registry data and mortality statistics, and does not identify the cause of the rising incidence and mortality in younger adults; the authors call for urgent aetiological research. The data relate to the United States. Detailed limitations should be checked in the full text of the paper.
This summary was prepared by the editorial team from the published paper; the original paper is the final reference. Read the original abstract on PubMed.