Exactly no one has “get diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of 50” on their bingo card. But for an increasing number of young adults, this is exactly the diagnosis they receive. When this happens, they need to have the best resources and team at their service, STAT. That’s why Englewood Health in Englewood, New Jersey has introduced a specialized program called the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Program, to help adults under 50 who are affected by colorectal cancer get the support and tailored services they need during treatment, recovery, and for the rest of their lives.
“The Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Program is dedicated to empowering young adults to navigate the challenges of cancer treatment and the journey beyond,” says Minaxi P. Jhawer, MD, chief of hematology/oncology at Englewood Hospital and associate medical director of The Lefcourt Family Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center and co-director of the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Program.
The program provides personalized, multidisciplinary care with access to a dedicated team of specialists, including oncology patient navigators, surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, and integrative medicine experts. Patients also receive fertility preservation planning, mental health services, nutritional guidance, genetic counseling, pain management, and an invitation to join support groups.
Each customized, integrated, and comprehensive plan addresses a patient’s immediate medical needs while also supporting their long-term health, wellness, and quality of life. Most importantly, it takes the responsibility of coordination off the patient and their families, freeing them up to just get well, cared for by the people who love them the most.
Sadly, colorectal cancer diagnoses in young adults have risen by 15% since 2004, with one in five new cases now occurring in people under 50. “The increase in cases among this population calls for a rethinking of how we deliver care and support patients and their families,” says Michael Marco, MD, a colorectal surgeon at Englewood Hospital and co-director of the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Program.
How do you know if you need to be screened for colorectal cancer?
Individuals at average risk of colon or rectal cancer should begin screening at age 45, with a colonoscopy being the gold standard. If you’re under 45 and are experiencing rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, it’s a good idea to speak to a gastroenterologist about getting screened.
For more information about how the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Program’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, long-term support; helping patients safeguard their health and well-being, not just during recovery but throughout their lives, and especially if you are younger than 50 years old and have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, please book a visit. Wishing you good health!
Englewood Health
350 Engle Street
Englewood, NJ
