Investigating how early life exposures affect the risk of colorectal cancer in young adults

Early life exposures and risk of young-onset colorectal cancer

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10691922

This study is looking into why more young people under 50 are getting colorectal cancer, focusing on how things like antibiotic use, being born by cesarean section, and childhood obesity might affect gut health and increase cancer risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10691922 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50 years old, focusing on how early life environmental exposures, such as antibiotic use, cesarean delivery, and childhood obesity, may contribute to this trend. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these exposures and their potential impact on gut microbiota, which may play a role in cancer development. By analyzing data from various cohorts, the researchers hope to uncover critical links between these factors and the risk of young-onset colorectal cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include young adults under 50 who may have experienced significant early life exposures such as antibiotic treatments or cesarean deliveries.

Not a fit: Patients over 50 years old or those without relevant early life exposures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and interventions for young adults at risk of colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between early life exposures and various health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into colorectal cancer risk.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.