When you think about colon cancer, you probably picture an older adult.
You shouldn’t.
Since the 1990s, colorectal cancer diagnoses have risen sharply among adults under 50. Once rare in young people, these cancers are now striking more often — and often going undetected until they’re advanced.
This changing reality — which has caught up to perception — should be alarming to everyone.
So said Dr. Sufian Sorathia and Dr. Marco Bertucci Zoccali of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center.
Sorathia, the medical director for endoscopy and assistant medical director of ambulatory care, said the obvious: Get screened early and often.
“The most powerful tool we have is early detection through timely screening, which can prevent cancer entirely by removing precancerous polyps,” he said. “If you’re 45 or older, talk to your doctor about getting screened. And if you’re experiencing symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, don’t ignore them. Challenging outdated assumptions and increasing awareness can save lives — starting with your own.”
Bertucci Zoccali, a specialist in colon & rectal surgery at Bergen New Bridge, agreed.
“When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly curable, most often with minimally invasive surgical techniques — robotic/laparoscopic — resulting in quick recovery, minimal postoperative pain, limited scarring and prompt return to normal activities with complete restoration of functional abilities.”
Sorathia and Bertucci Zoccali broke down the issue.
BINJE: Why is this happening?
Sufian Sorathia & Marco Bertucci Zoccali: Part of the problem is awareness — or the lack of it. Because colorectal cancer has long been seen as a disease of aging, many young people and even their providers may overlook early warning signs. Constipation, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss or sudden changes in bowel habits are too often dismissed or misdiagnosed. And too many people feel uncomfortable talking about these symptoms at all.
BINJE: How do we change the narrative?
SS & MBZ: At Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, providers are working tirelessly to expand community education, so younger adults know what to watch for — and when to see a doctor. They have partnered with the Columbia University Department of Surgery to bring leading-edge surgical expertise to patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Screening remains their strongest tool. Colonoscopies and other tests can find polyps before they become cancerous. If removed in time, these polyps never get the chance to turn deadly — but they often grow silently with no obvious symptoms.
Current guidelines recommend regular screening starting at age 45, but if you have risk factors such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or certain genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome, you may need to start even earlier.
BINJE: Talk about access.
SS & MBZ: Education alone isn’t enough — access is everything. Too many people, especially in underserved communities, still lack affordable, timely screenings and specialized care. Equally important is having providers who are skilled at detecting these cancers early and delivering the advanced treatments that can make the difference between life and loss.
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center is committed to removing barriers so every patient, regardless of age, background, or income, has the best chance at early detection and the best possible outcome.
BINJE: How does someone take charge of their health?
“The most powerful tool we have is early detection through timely screening, which can prevent cancer entirely by removing precancerous polyps.” — Dr. Sufian Sorathia
SS & MBZ: While no cancer is 100% preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Get regular screenings as recommended for your age and risk factors.
- Talk to your provider about any new or unusual symptoms — and don’t be afraid to push for answers.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber, and low in fat and processed foods.
- Stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking and limit or avoid alcohol.
If you’re 45 or older — or younger with risk factors — talk to your doctor today about which screening test is right for you. And, if you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait.
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early — but only if you know the risks, take action and have access to the skilled care you deserve.
Getting screened could save your life — or the life of someone you love.
For information about Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, newbridgehealth.org.
