Why colorectal, thyroid, and kidney cancers are rising in younger adults
UNCOVER: underlying novel causes of onset of very early cancer research
This project looks for environmental and lifestyle reasons why colorectal, thyroid, and kidney cancers are increasing in adults aged 25–49.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11192765 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you are worried about early-onset cancer, this work analyzes national U.S. cancer registry (SEER) data to map rising cases by birth year, age, race, and stage. The team uses age–period–cohort statistical models to spot generational patterns and compare trends for colorectal, thyroid, and kidney cancers. They will link these trend analyses with other population data to search for environmental or lifestyle risk factors that could explain the increases. The aim is to identify preventable causes so future screening or prevention can better protect people like you.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 25–49, including people diagnosed with colorectal, thyroid, or kidney cancer or those willing to share medical history or contribute data for research.
Not a fit: People older than 50 or those with cancers not being studied (other than colorectal, thyroid, or kidney) are unlikely to see direct benefits from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify preventable environmental or lifestyle causes and guide earlier detection or prevention strategies for younger adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous population studies have documented similar rising trends but have not proved specific causes, so this project builds on prior findings and applies focused modeling to search for causes.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Wan — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Yang, Wan
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.