A prospective investigation of early‑onset colorectal cancer risk factors – pooled analysis of three large‑scale European cohorts

Cancer research · Colorectal cancer

Higher body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption increase the risk of early‑onset colorectal cancer (particularly in men), while higher physical activity is protective.

Colorectal cancer incidence is rising among adults under 55 years, but its causes remain unclear. This study pooled three large European prospective cohort studies to examine 14 lifestyle risk factors in early‑onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) versus later‑onset colorectal cancer (LOCRC). Higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist‑to‑hip ratio were strongly associated with EOCRC in men, particularly for colon cancer, while smoking and alcohol consumption increased risk and physical activity was protective. The associations for BMI were weaker in women and for rectal cancers. Similar patterns were observed for LOCRC but with overall lower risk estimates.

Understanding modifiable risk factors for early‑onset colorectal cancer is essential for developing preventive strategies and reducing the rising burden of disease among younger adults.

Evidence level: Állatkísérletes. Állatmodellben vizsgálták.

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