Early Age Group Presentation of Colorectal Carcinoma: Changing the Age Incidence

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common malignancy in the Western world, with rising incidence and mortality globally. While traditionally a disease of older adults, recent trends suggest an increasing prevalence among younger populations, warranting further investigation. Objective: To assess the early-age presentation of colorectal cancer and changing age-based incidence patterns in a tertiary care setting. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, over one year (January–December 2010). Seventy consecutively enrolled, non-randomized CRC patients were analyzed. Data were processed using MS Office and SPSS 23.0. Results: Mean age of participants was 48.6±15.59 years; 32.86% were ≤40. Tumors were located in the proximal colon (32.86%), distal colon (24.29%), and rectum (42.86%). Most were moderately differentiated (44.29%), while 18.57% were poorly differentiated. Advanced stages predominated (stage III: 41.43%; IV: 20%). Younger patients (≤40) had more rectal tumors (47.83%) and aggressive histology (73.91% moderate/poor differentiation), but comparable staging (p=0.974) and risk factors (p>0.05) to older patients. Surgical approach has differed marginally (p=0.225). Conclusion: While CRC remains more prevalent in older individuals (predominantly males with lower socioeconomic status), a substantial proportion (32.86%) of cases occurred in patients ≤40, often with aggressive features. These findings highlight shifting epidemiological trends, emphasizing the need for early screening and awareness in younger populations.