Investigating how obesity, inactivity, and diet affect early-onset colorectal cancer risk
Obesity, sedentary behaviors, and diet quality for prevention and early detection of early-onset colorectal neoplasia
This study is looking into why more young people under 50 are getting colorectal cancer and how things like being overweight, not exercising enough, and eating poorly might play a role, with the goal of finding better ways to screen for this cancer in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10874566 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the rising rates of early-onset colorectal cancer, particularly in individuals diagnosed before the age of 50. It examines how lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary behavior, and poor diet quality may contribute to this increase. By analyzing these factors, the study aims to identify specific risk contributors and their biological mechanisms, including inflammation and immune responses. The findings could lead to more personalized screening strategies for colorectal cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 to 50 who are at average risk for colorectal cancer but may have lifestyle factors such as obesity or sedentary behavior.
Not a fit: Patients who are over 50 years old or those with a history of colorectal cancer may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and screening guidelines for early-onset colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that lifestyle factors significantly impact colorectal cancer risk, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cao, Yin — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Cao, Yin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.