Colon Cancer Mortality in the US: Statistics, Trends, and Prevention

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the US (combined men/women), with an estimated 53,010 deaths in 2024 (ACS). In 2020, ~53,200 deaths occurred.

Trends

• Overall mortality declining ~2%/year due to screening and treatment advances.
• Rising incidence in adults <50 (early-onset CRC) – cause under investigation.
• Disparities: Black Americans have 20% higher incidence and 40% higher mortality.

Screening Saves Lives

USPSTF recommends screening at 45 for average-risk adults. Options:

• Colonoscopy q10y (gold standard; detects & removes polyps).
• FIT (fecal immunochemical test) annually.
• Cologuard (mt-sDNA) q3y.
• CT colonography q5y.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy q5y + FIT q3y.

Risk Reduction

• Maintain healthy weight, physical activity.
• Limit red/processed meat, alcohol.
• High fiber, fruits, vegetables, calcium, vitamin D.
• Aspirin (for certain 50–69yo with CVD risk – discuss with doctor).

Early detection (Stage I) 5-year survival: >90%. Late-stage (IV): ~14%. Screening is the most powerful tool.