Recently Diagnosed with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer? Now What?
Written By: Tamar Parmet, MSW - Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver; Jessica Rivera Rivera, PhD - Healthcare Delivery Research Network, MedStar Health Research Institute; Alaina Carr, PhD - Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer in the United States. The number of newly diagnosed colorectal cancer cases among adults older than 50 has declined over the last decade, yet new cases are increasing in adults under the age of 50.
Why is early onset colorectal cancer on the rise?
No single risk factor has been identified to determine why early-onset colorectal cancer cases are rising, but certain factors may contribute, such as lifestyle factors (e.g., being inactive), environmental factors (e.g., air and water pollution), and genetic factors (e.g., lynch syndrome).
Receiving a cancer diagnosis at any age can be overwhelming but may feel particularly shocking as a young patient facing unique, age-specific challenges such as fertility, family planning, or managing work responsibilities while fighting cancer.
If you have been recently diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer, know you are not alone. This March, in honor of Colon Cancer Awareness month, we are highlighting helpful information, tips, and resources for living with early-onset colorectal cancer.
How can I prepare for colorectal cancer treatment?
It is common to feel a lack of control while fighting cancer. Taking time to prepare for your medical appointments is one way that you can feel empowered while managing your disease.
- Write down your questions before each appointment. It is common to feel overwhelmed with information during medical appointments. Making a plan before going to the hospital will help guide your conversation with your provider.
- If possible, bring support with you. Whether it’s a parent, partner, friend, or loved one, your support system can help you navigate appointments and feel less alone.
- Discuss your treatment options. Be prepared to have a discussion with your medical team about the different treatment options for early-onset colorectal cancer. This may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.
- Be aware of clinical trials for new treatments to improve life expectancy and slow tumor growth. If you are interested in learning more, the National Institute of Health and the American Cancer Society have resources available to help find a clinical trial near you and to help you determine whether a clinical trial is right for you.
- Ask your oncologist for resources. Cancer can impact every aspect of your life and there are professionals available to help. Social workers, case managers, or patient navigators can provide you with information about paid family medical leave, financial assistance, and various sources of emotional support.
How can I find resources for emotional support during cancer treatment?
A diagnosis of early-onset colon cancer can be challenging to manage alone. Fortunately, there are community groups and other resources available to help expand your support network.
Individual or Group Therapy
Many hospitals have social workers or psychologists who specialize in providing support throughout your cancer journey. Ask your medical provider if this option is available.
If there are no resources for emotional support available at your medical center, check other online sources to find a therapist that suits you. Psychology Today is an excellent resource for finding therapists in your area that meet your specific demographics and needs.
Peer Support
You might find comfort in connecting with others diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer. There are online resources available through non-profits or patient advocacy groups to connect you with individuals going through a similar treatment process.
- The Colorectal Cancer Alliance has online community-based resources and a buddy program available specifically for early-onset colorectal cancer.
- Colon Town is an online community facilitating nearly 100 peer-based support groups for individuals coping with colorectal cancer.
- Imerman’s Angels provides free one-on-one peer-based support to individuals coping with cancer. You will be matched with a buddy who is of similar age, gender, cancer type, and experience.
- Fight CRC is a national patient advocacy and empowerment organization that hosts a free online community for colorectal cancer patients (a community of champions) as well as monthly events available for patients coping with colorectal cancer.
Other Avenues of Support
- Talk with your support network. Find time to call with a friend or a loved one, this is a good time to strengthen or maintain healthy relationships.
- Try journaling or meditation. Try something new, like journaling or meditation, sometimes a moment to reflect and care for yourself can make a big difference. Insight timer is a free meditation app available for use.
- Establish a consistent exercise or movement regimen that is accessible during treatment. This may mean going for a walk once a day or engaging in yoga.
- Lean on your existing faith-based community or consider getting in touch with a faith-based community.
Remember that every individual's experience with cancer is different. Be patient with yourself as you adjust to your diagnosis and pursue different avenues of support.
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