Colorectal Cancer Rates On the Rise in Younger Adults

Kevin Devries, now 39, had been having some intestinal symptoms for several years.

A couple of years ago his doctor suggested a colonoscopy. But because Devries was far younger than the recommended age for a first colonoscopy — 50 for those with no family history, 45 for African-Americans — his insurer said it probably wouldn’t pay, and if it did, his high-deductible plan would leave him footing most of the bill.

Within the past year, however, his symptoms worsened, and there were a few extra ones. So he decided to go ahead.

The most important message is you’ve got to get screened,” said Dr. Timothy Huyck, a medical oncologist and hematologist at Nebraska Cancer Specialists at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center. “And you’ve got to talk to your physician about what’s appropriate for you.”

Omaha World-Herald's Julie Anderson: Colorectal cancer rates rise among young U.S. adults