Colon / Colorectal Cancer

Researchers are investigating causes of early-onset cancer — and how to reduce your risk

Colorectal cancer screening is widely recommended for adults ages 45 to 75 with an average risk of developing the disease. However, many people don’t realize that the benefits of screening for this type of cancer aren’t always the same for older adults.

A study from University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center researchers surveyed the partners of colorectal cancer patients and found the financial impact of a loved one’s diagnosis also impacts the partner’s health-related quality of life.

Undergoing emergency surgery was associated with a higher rate of complications, including death. Out of close to 5,000 patients who underwent any type of surgery for colorectal cancer, 23% had emergency surgery -- but those patients made up 63% of the deaths.

Most colorectal cancers are insensitive to immune therapies. This research indicates one of the mechanisms leading to this resistance is likely the high level of ammonia that accumulates in the microenvironment.

A team of University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center researchers have received a $3.07 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to develop a model for long-term surveillance and care of younger adults treated for colorectal cancer.