If you live in New Mexico and have reached the age of 45, you should be screened for colorectal cancer, per the recommendation from the American Cancer Society. This is the third most common cancer for both men and women with the leading cancer being lung cancer. For a long time, colorectal cancer was associated with the elderly; the median age of those diagnosed with it in 1989 was 72. By 2016, though, the median age had dropped to 66.
More people under 50 with the cancer
From 2008 to 2017, the number of people under 50 dying from colorectal cancer rose 1.3% annually. On the other hand, the number of such fatalities among people 65 and older has declined 3% during each of those years. In 2020, an estimated 53,200 people will die from colorectal cancer; of those, 3,640, or 7%, will be under 50. That same year, 147,950 people are expected to be diagnosed with the cancer. Around 17,930, or 12%, will likely be under 50.
Determining the cause, facing treatment challenges
Experts have not singled out any cause behind this trend, but they say diet may be a contributing factor. Poor diet can raise the risk for colorectal cancer. Doctors may find it hard to treat younger colorectal cancer patients because there are concerns about preserving patients’ fertility and sexual function.
If you had your cancer misdiagnosed
Perhaps you had your colorectal cancer misdiagnosed. The results could have been a wrong treatment and the worsening of your condition. Whatever the nature of your medical malpractice case, you may want a lawyer to assist you. Malpractice claims end in some of the highest settlements in the field of personal injury, so you can be sure that the other side will put up a fight. The lawyer may negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, litigate.
