Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The onset of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients younger than 50 continues to rapidly increase. This study highlights the epidemiologic changes, risk factors, clinical characteristics, and molecular profiles prevalent in early onset CRC patients, and identifies key areas for future research. It has been noted that only a small fraction of early onset CRC cases is attributed to known hereditary mutations and fit the canonical pathway of late-onset colorectal cancer development. To highlight this, we review the genetic and epigenetic modifications specific to early onset CRC. We also discuss the synergetic effect of single-nucleotide polymorphisms and environmental factors on the early onset of CRC. Additionally, we discuss the potential of noninvasive biomarker assays to enhance early detection, screening, diagnosis, and prognostic outcome predictions.
Authors: Atehkeng Zinkeng, F. Lloyd Taylor, Samuel H. Cheong, Heyu Song, Juanita L. Merchant
Institutions: University of Arizona, Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara
Language: English
Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,030
OpenAlex ID: W4404082771