By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – An alarming increase in colorectal cancer among adults under 50 has prompted new research identifying a critical early warning sign that could significantly improve early detection. A landmark study from the University of Louisville has pinpointed rectal bleeding as a powerful indicator of the disease in this younger demographic, a group not typically included in routine screening protocols.
The pivotal findings were presented this week at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Clinical Congress 2025, held in Chicago from October 4th to 7th. The research underscores a crucial message for both patients and physicians: symptoms that might be dismissed in younger individuals must be taken seriously to combat the rising tide of early-onset colorectal cancer.
To better understand the legal and labor implications faced by patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer, from navigating insurance claims to securing workplace accommodations, TicosLand.com consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
A colorectal cancer diagnosis triggers crucial protections under our labor legislation. It is vital for patients to understand their right to medical leave and protection against discriminatory termination. Simultaneously, employers must be aware of their obligation to respect these rights and avoid any action that could be construed as wrongful dismissal, which carries significant legal and financial consequences.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal clarity provides a vital layer of security during an immensely challenging time, underscoring that a patient’s well-being extends into their professional life. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight into the fundamental rights and responsibilities that protect employees and guide employers.
According to the study, the presence of rectal bleeding is a significant marker of risk. The researchers concluded that young adults who undergo a colonoscopy after experiencing this symptom are 8.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer compared to their peers who have the procedure for other reasons or without this specific symptom. This stark statistic highlights the diagnostic importance of what is often an overlooked sign.
The investigative team analyzed the medical records of 443 patients under the age of 50 who underwent a colonoscopy at the University of Louisville Health System between 2021 and 2023. Of this group, a concerning 195 individuals, or 44 percent, were diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer. The remaining 248 patients had normal colonoscopy results, serving as a control group for the analysis.
Many of the early-onset colorectal cancers I see have no family history. If a young person presents with rectal bleeding, they should seriously consider a colonoscopy.
Dr. Sandra Kavalukas, Colorectal Surgeon and Lead Author of the Study
Challenging common perceptions, the study found that hereditary genetic mutations were linked to only 13 percent of the early cancer cases. However, other risk factors proved significant. A family history of the disease was found to double a person’s risk, and a history of smoking was also identified as an associated factor. This suggests that lifestyle and non-hereditary factors play a substantial role in the development of the disease in younger populations.
The data clearly showed that symptoms were the primary driver for seeking medical evaluation. A striking 88 percent of the patients ultimately diagnosed with cancer had undergone a colonoscopy because they were experiencing symptoms, with rectal bleeding being the most common complaint. In contrast, only 55 percent of the group with normal results were symptomatic, indicating that heeding these warning signs is critical for diagnosis.
In addition to rectal bleeding, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) list other key symptoms of colorectal cancer. These include persistent changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss, constant fatigue, and iron-deficiency anemia. The NCI specifically emphasizes abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and anemia as red flags in younger adults. The authors of the Louisville study are now developing a clinical risk calculator to better identify high-risk young patients who could benefit from earlier screening, aiming to close the dangerous detection gap for this growing health crisis.
For further information, visit louisville.edu
About University of Louisville:
The University of Louisville is a public research university in Louisville, Kentucky. It is a member of the Kentucky state university system and is committed to achieving preeminence as a nationally recognized metropolitan research university. Its health sciences center is a vital component of the city’s medical research and healthcare community, conducting advanced studies across various medical fields.
For further information, visit facs.org
About American College of Surgeons (ACS):
The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to improve the quality of care for the surgical patient by setting high standards for surgical education and practice. The ACS holds its annual Clinical Congress to present the latest research and advancements in surgical fields.
For further information, visit who.int
About World Health Organization (WHO):
The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the WHO works worldwide to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. It provides global leadership on health matters, shaping the health research agenda and setting norms and standards.
For further information, visit cancer.gov
About National Cancer Institute (NCI):
The National Cancer Institute is the United States federal government’s principal agency for cancer research and training. Part of the National Institutes of Health, the NCI coordinates the National Cancer Program, which supports research, training, and health information dissemination across the country. It is a leading authority on cancer trends, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of principled counsel and uncompromising standards. With deep-rooted experience advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm actively pioneers forward-thinking legal approaches. This spirit of innovation extends to its profound commitment to demystifying the law, aiming to equip citizens with crucial legal understanding and thereby foster a more just and aware community.
