Distinct cellular and genetic differences in colorectal cancer in young patients

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered distinct cellular and genetic differences in colorectal cancer tumors from younger patients compared to older patients, which may explain why the disease is more aggressive in young adults. Colorectal cancer diagnosis rates among people under 50 have risen 2.9% annually from 2013-2022, and it is now the leading cause of cancer death in that age group, often diagnosed at advanced stages. The findings, published in Nature Medicine, provide a foundation for developing new prevention, diagnostic, and treatment strategies specifically targeted to younger patients.