The American Cancer Society estimates that 24,640 new colorectal cancer cases in 2026 will occur in adults under age 50. Early-onset colorectal cancer incidence is rising, and approximately three out of four young adults are diagnosed when the disease is at an advanced stage.¹

While inherited genetic syndromes account for a portion of early‑onset colorectal cancer cases, most younger adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer do not have a known hereditary condition. The rising incidence in adults under age 50 is likely driven by a combination of lifestyle factors and biological changes rather than genetics alone.²

Research also suggests that biological changes linked to gut health may play a role in early‑onset colorectal cancer. Studies of younger adults with colorectal cancer have identified distinct gut microbiome patterns, including higher levels of bacteria associated with inflammation and DNA damage and lower levels of bacteria that help protect the colon lining. These patterns appear to be influenced by diet, obesity, metabolic disease, sedentary behavior, antibiotic exposure, and other environmental factors earlier in life, even among individuals without a family history of colorectal cancer.²

Provider action makes a difference

Colorectal cancer warning signs are often present long before diagnosis in younger adults. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, low iron, and unexplained weight loss may be attributed to less serious conditions, causing a delay in diagnosis.²

Early evaluation and screening can help reduce colorectal cancer deaths. Studies show that early detection through screening yields five-year survival rates of more than 90 percent in the United States.³

Providers play an important role in recognizing risk factors, responding promptly to symptoms in younger patients, and recommending screening beginning at age 45 — or earlier when clinically appropriate.⁴ Research indicates that emphasizing the importance and benefits of screening, addressing patient concerns, and explaining available screening options are effective strategies for encouraging colorectal cancer screening.⁵

Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set measures

Each year, Cigna Healthcare^® collects data for the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS^®)⁶ by requesting medical records from providers. This industry-wide method helps compare and assess a health plan’s performance in a variety of areas.

For information on the HEDIS measures related to colorectal cancer screening, visit the National Committee for Quality Assurance HEDIS Measures and Technical Resources web page.

Coverage

Cigna Healthcare typically covers colorectal cancer screenings at no cost when performed at in-network locations. Our Preventive Care Services (A004) administrative policy includes additional information, including the Current Procedural Terminology codes for screening.

To find a list of in-network providers, go to the provider directory on Cigna.com. Your patients can also locate in-network providers by logging in to myCigna.com or the myCigna^® App.

Resources

Patient education about colorectal cancer is available. The Wellness Library on Cigna.com can be a helpful resource for your patients, outlining causes, symptoms, risk factors, health tools, and treatment. In addition, in recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month earlier this year, Cigna Healthcare published an article for patients about the importance of scheduling a preventive colonoscopy.

^{1. Rebecca Siegel, et al. “Colorectal cancer statistics, 2026.” CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 02 March 2026. Retrieved from https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.70067.}

^{2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Early-onset colon cancer.” Mayo Clinic. 09 July 2025. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/in-depth/early-onset-colon-cancer/art-20583551.}

^{3. American Cancer Society (ACS). “American Cancer Society Updates Colorectal Cancer Screening Guideline: Major Changes Emphasize Blood-Based and At-Home Stool Testing.” Press Release. 27 May 2026. Retrieved from https://pressroom.cancer.org/colorectal-cancer-screening-guideline-update-2026.}

^{4. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Screening for Colorectal Cancer.” CDC. 17 June 2026. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/screening/index.html#cdc_testing_when_to_tested-screening-recommendations.}

^{5. American Cancer Society National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (ACS NCCRT). “Lead Time Messaging Guidebook: A Tool to Encourage On-Time Colorectal Cancer Screening.” ACS NCCRT. December 2023. Retrieved from https://nccrt.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2023-Lead-Time-Messaging-Guidebook-v15.pdf.}

6. HEDIS^® is a registered trademark of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).