Colon cancer linked to increased heart disease risk in youth

Researchers have discovered a troubling link between colon cancer and a higher risk of dying from heart disease, particularly among younger adults. Cancer Research UK notes that around 44,000 new bowel cancer cases are reported each year in the UK, with an alarming rise in diagnoses among people under 50. A recent 20-year study of over 630,000 adults in the U.S. indicates that the risk of developing cardiovascular issues increases significantly in the two years following a colon cancer diagnosis. This risk is especially high for those diagnosed before turning 50. Dr. Ahsan Ayaz from Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital emphasized that the two-year period after a colorectal cancer diagnosis is crucial for monitoring heart health. He suggests more aggressive management of heart risks such as diabetes and high blood pressure, particularly for younger patients and those from Black and male populations. Previous studies showed that cancer survivors have a 37% higher risk of heart disease. The new findings reveal that after a colon cancer diagnosis, the risk of developing heart disease rises by 45%, and these patients are 16% more likely to die from cardiovascular conditions than those without cancer. For young adults under 50, they face a 2.4 times higher risk of dying from heart issues unrelated to cancer. Researchers are still investigating the reasons behind these risks. Dr. Ayaz mentioned that while newer cancer treatments may have undetermined side effects, it's critical to identify and address these potential heart problems early. The next steps for researchers include examining heart-related deaths in bowel cancer patients undergoing various treatments to better understand the associated risks.