Grant: Project Grant

Colorectal cancer is the second most common form of cancer in Canada. The disease frequently strikes in adults 50 years of age or older. However, recent studies have shown that the number of young adults diagnosed at less than 50 years of age with young-onset colorectal cancer is increasing. Our goal is to better understand the growing problem of young-onset colorectal cancer using British Columbia's rich data sources. These include information on all doctors' visits, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and diagnosed cancers in the province as these are all reported to BC Cancer. First, we will calculate the number of individuals who are currently living with young-onset colorectal cancer as this will help inform the ongoing care of survivors of this condition. We will look at differences between women and men and different age groups. Second, we will examine how young-onset colorectal cancer is being treated, for example, how long from a diagnosis does treatment start and what types of treatment are used. We will also study whether there are differences in treatment between men and women. Third, we will calculate the cost of caring for young-onset colorectal cancer. We will also compare the risk of dying from young-onset colorectal diagnosed at less than 50 years of age as compared to colorectal cancer diagnosed at 50 years of age and over. We will also examine potential differences in outcomes between men and women. Altogether, by explaining the growing problem of young-onset colorectal cancer, our research will help improve understanding, treatment, and outcomes of young-onset colorectal cancer.