News Summary
At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, significant discussions are underway about improving cancer care for underserved populations, particularly regarding the alarming rise of early-onset colorectal cancer. Experts emphasize the importance of innovative approaches, including artificial intelligence and telehealth, to enhance patient engagement. As the incidence of colorectal cancer increases among younger people, the center focuses on addressing systemic issues and ensuring education among healthcare professionals to improve early diagnosis and outcomes.
Nashville, Tennessee – At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, significant innovations in cancer care are being discussed, especially concerning underserved populations and the alarming rise in early-onset colorectal cancer. Cathy Eng, the VICC Associate Director of Strategic Relations and Research Partnerships, emphasizes the need for academic medical institutions to prioritize patient care for those with limited access to healthcare services.
Eng highlights that Vanderbilt makes concerted efforts to offer healthcare solutions, which may include free services for those in need. Flexibility in patient outreach is critical, as many individuals face substantial barriers to accessing healthcare. Eng points out that the application of artificial intelligence and telehealth services are vital components of enhancing oncology research and maintaining patient engagement, particularly for patients who struggle with transportation.
Eng serves multiple roles at the center, including serving as the codirector of GI Oncology and leading the Young Adult Cancers Program. Her focus is not only on treating cancer but also on improving systemic issues that affect patient care and outcomes.
A key concern in cancer care is the rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly among younger generations. Since 1990, the rates of CRC diagnoses have significantly increased, with approximately one in five new CRC cases in the U.S. now occurring in individuals aged 54 or younger, a sharp rise from one in ten in 1995. The increase has been noted at around 2% per year since 2011, culminating in a troubling trend for younger patients.
Eng’s experience includes treating numerous young patients with advanced cases of CRC, including a striking incident involving a 16-year-old diagnosed with the disease. Researchers are working to understand what factors contribute to this rise, suspecting that obesity, shifting lifestyles, and dietary changes may play significant roles. Alarmingly, many of the young patients do not exhibit traditional risk factors.
The exposome concept is being investigated, focusing on lifelong environmental exposures that could influence cancer risk. Enhanced awareness of updated screening guidelines also forms an essential part of the strategy to tackle rising CRC rates. Guidelines now recommend that colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 45, a shift aimed at increasing early detection.
Eng argues for the vital importance of healthcare professional education, noting that many young patients with symptoms are often misdiagnosed due to their youth and overall apparent good health. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial; cases identified at earlier stages tend to be more treatable, potentially preventing progress to stage 4, which is significantly more challenging to manage.
Following the new screening recommendations, a recent study has indicated an increase in preventive CRC screenings among individuals aged 45 to 49. This uptick is a promising sign that awareness and compliance may be improving in the population.
Research efforts at Vanderbilt, including those led by investigator Andreana Holowatyj, are focused on the genetic and biological landscape of early-onset cancers. Holowatyj has observed racial and sexual disparities in outcomes for young CRC patients, underlining the complexity of this public health challenge. Most early-onset CRC cases appear sporadic and lack any known hereditary link, making the scenario more intricate for healthcare providers and researchers alike.
Projects such as Cancer Grand Challenges are aimed at significant advancements in understanding and treating these cancers. Eng’s commitment to addressing disparities in patient outcomes is paired with ongoing research initiatives and clinical trials at Vanderbilt, which aim to provide innovative solutions in cancer care and improve overall patient outcomes.
In summary, the collaborative efforts being made at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling the complexities surrounding cancer care, especially for vulnerable populations and the troubling rise of early-onset colorectal cancer.
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Additional Resources
- OncoDaily: Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Wikipedia: Colorectal Cancer
- AJMC: Elevating Cancer Care Through Personalized Treatment
- Google Search: Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
- ASCO Post: EPOV: Cathy Eng
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Oncology
- The Scientist: Rise in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
- Google News: Colorectal Cancer Research
Author: HERE Nashville
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