The Rising Tide of Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Teenager’s Perspective
Colorectal cancer is no longer solely a disease of older adults. Increasingly, diagnoses are occurring in individuals under 50, impacting not only those directly affected but also their families – especially children and teenagers navigating a parent’s illness. Dylan Kurtz, who shared his experience as his father battled stage 3 colon cancer beginning on his 16th birthday in 2020, offers a poignant look into this growing trend and valuable advice for others facing similar challenges.
A Shocking Diagnosis: When Cancer Hits Home
Dylan Kurtz’s story began with a surprise. His father, Jonathan, began chemotherapy on Dylan’s 16th birthday. Initially, Dylan didn’t fully grasp the implications. “I didn’t really know much of anything about colon cancer other than it was cancer in the colon,” he explained. The emotional uncertainty was overwhelming, but open communication with his father helped him understand the seriousness of the situation, including the need for radiation and months of chemotherapy.
This experience highlights a critical need for honest, age-appropriate conversations when a parent receives a cancer diagnosis. Marianne Pearson, MSW, LCSW, vice president of Cancer Care at the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, emphasizes that explaining treatments and even visiting the cancer center can reduce fear and provide a sense of security.
Life Interrupted: Adapting to a Modern Normal
A cancer diagnosis ripples through the entire family. For Dylan, it meant a shift in routines and responsibilities. Family activities, like attending baseball games and outdoor adventures, were place on hold as his father’s health required prioritizing rest and minimizing exposure to germs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of typical outings, they found new ways to connect, like completing puzzles together.
Dylan also stepped up at home, taking on extra chores, helping with meals, and providing care for his older brother, Steven, who has autism. He even created “Camp Kurtz” when summer camps were canceled, ensuring Steven remained engaged and supported.
The Importance of Accurate Information and Self-Advocacy
Initially, Dylan turned to the internet for answers, but quickly realized the potential for misinformation and alarming worst-case scenarios. He learned to rely on his parents and his father’s doctors for accurate information. This underscores the importance of avoiding self-diagnosis through online searches and seeking guidance from trusted medical professionals.
A Family History and the Future of Screening
Fortunately, Dylan’s father is now cancer-free, but the experience prompted a deeper understanding of preventative health. Dylan learned that screening is crucial for early detection and that his family may carry a genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer. He plans to undergo genetic testing and potentially begin screening at a younger age than typically recommended.
Cedrek McFadden, MD, medical advisor for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, notes that children of parents diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a higher risk and should consider starting screening 10 years before their parent’s diagnosis, or at age 40, whichever comes first. Genetic counseling and testing are also important, especially if the cancer occurred at a young age or there’s a strong family history.
Spreading Awareness and Offering Support
Driven by his experience, Dylan Kurtz partnered with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance to create resources for teenagers navigating a parent’s cancer journey. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding unreliable online information, embracing increased family responsibilities (while communicating limits), finding new ways to connect with a parent during treatment, and seeking support from teachers, counselors, and friends.
Tom Milam, MD, psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at Iris Telehealth, points out that children often grapple with unspoken grief, fear, and sadness. Professional behavioral health support can be invaluable for both the child and the entire family.
Dylan’s Tips for Teens
- Avoid Google: Rely on doctors and trusted resources for accurate information.
- Embrace Responsibilities: Help at home, but don’t be afraid to ask for help if overwhelmed.
- Find New Activities: Discover new ways to connect with your parent during treatment.
- Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, teachers, or a counselor.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if my parent is diagnosed with colorectal cancer?
A: Talk to your parent and their doctors, seek support from friends and family, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Q: Is colorectal cancer becoming more common in younger people?
A: Yes, it is. Colorectal cancer has surpassed breast and lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in U.S. Adults under 50.
Q: How can I find reliable information about colorectal cancer?
A: Consult with your parent’s doctors, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance (https://www.colorectalcancer.org/), and other reputable medical organizations.
Q: What if I feel overwhelmed by my new responsibilities?
A: Communicate your feelings to your parents and seek support from others. It’s okay to ask for help.
Did you know? Colorectal cancer is often preventable with regular screening. Talk to your doctor about when you should start getting screened.
Share your story and help raise awareness about young-onset colorectal cancer. What resources have you found helpful? Leave a comment below.
