S639 Assessing Colorectal Cancer Awareness in Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Among University Students in Miami

Introduction: The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in individuals under 40 is steadily rising, yet awareness among young adults remains limited. Early identification of warning signs, such as hematochezia, is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate awareness of CRC symptoms, risk factors, and the role of gastroenterologists among college-aged individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate students at 2 universities in Miami, Florida over a 2-day period. A 12-item anonymous questionnaire was distributed in collaboration with a medical school gastroenterology interest group. The survey collected data on demographics, recognition of CRC symptoms, awareness of CRC epidemiology, curability, and knowledge of gastroenterology as a specialty. Results: A total of 322 college students aged 17–25 participated (response rate ∼32%). Of these, 6.2% reported occasional rectal bleeding (defined as blood on toilet paper, in the bowl, or stool). Despite this, 78% were unaware that blood in stool was a possible symptom of CRC. Furthermore, 92% of respondents were unaware that the average age of CRC diagnoses has been decreasing in recent years. Seventy-one percent of respondents did not know that CRC is often curable if detected early, and 34% were unfamiliar with the role of gastroenterologists in cancer screening and prevention. Conclusion: Findings reveal a substantial knowledge gap in CRC awareness among young adults, even among those reporting concerning symptoms. This underscores the urgent need for targeted educational initiatives at the university level. Raising awareness about early signs and the importance of screening especially in symptomatic individuals under 40 may play a pivotal role in improving early detection and outcomes in young-onset CRC.