Study: More young adults dying from colon cancer

More young people are dying of colon cancer than ever before, according to a new study from the American Cancer Society. Now, doctors are trying to figure out why.

Dr. Michael Wallace, the director of digestive diseases at the Mayo Clinic, said he has even seen cases that mirror that finding in Jacksonville.

“Although relatively rare, it stands out because it tells us that something unusual is going on. Most people who get cancer get them at older ages for different reasons,” Wallace said.

Wallace said even though there is a shift to younger patients, there is still one big unanswered question.

“It has not yet answered the question why is that happening. There is speculation and good hypothesis,” Wallace said.

Wallace said there is one factor that could play a role.

“The possible reason for that include the rising epidemic of obesity. Obesity is a major risk factor for cancer,” Wallace said.

Click here to read the full study.

Cox Media Group