March 3, 2026 Colorectal Cancer: How Common Is It and What’s The Fatality Rate?

Colorectal cancer is an illness that affects the large intestine or rectum, with the World Health Organization reporting that there were around 1.9 million cases of colorectal cancer around the world in 2022.  

Cases of the disease were highest in Europe, New Zealand, and Australia, with the mortality rate being the highest in Eastern Europe.  

Some factors can increase your chances of getting colorectal cancer, including:   

• Eating diets high in processed foods and low in vegetables and fruits  

• Sedentary lifestyle  

• Obesity or being overweight  

• Tobacco use and alcohol consumption  

• Family history of the disease  

• Older age, but it can occur at any age  

• Having inflammatory bowel diseases  

How Common Is Colorectal Cancer?  

Colorectal cancer is categorized as the third most common cancer around the world, with the disease accounting for around 10% of all cancer cases. It mostly affects people aged 50 years old and above.  

It is also considered to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.  

Recently, it was found that the mortality rate for colorectal cancer has been decreasing by about 1% per year in older adults during the past decade. It was attributed to the more developed screening and removal of colorectal polyps before they can develop into cancer.  

Catching symptoms early can also help with early detection, which can help in receiving proper treatment.  

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include:  

• Changes in bowel movement  

• Blood in stool   

• Discomfort in the belly, which could be cramps or gas  

• Having a feeling of not emptying the bowels during a bowel movement  

• Fatigue or weakness  

• Unintentional weight loss  

Treatments for the disease have also improved over the years. Despite the improvements, it was found that mortality rates have been increasing about 1% every year since the 2000s for people under 55.  

Can It Be Prevented?  

Like any disease, it helps to have a balanced diet and regular exercise, and make an effort to maintain a healthy weight.  

If you think of yourself as being at risk of having colorectal cancer, you should start screening earlier. Doctors usually recommend having colorectal cancer screening once you reach the age of 45.