23andMe is a direct-to-consumer genetic testing company. They distribute DNA collection kits for saliva samples, which are processed to generate ancestry and health reports. While 23andMe's website mentions an average timeline of 4-6 weeks, some users report receiving their results as early as 10 days after 23andMe receives their sample. Factors like shipping delays, lab errors, etc., can further impact this timeline.
23andMe is a company that provides direct-to-consumer genetic/DNA testing and analysis.
The company has over 12.5 million customers worldwide.
Its primary service is a direct-to-consumer genetic test based on saliva samples.
This test includes information about customers’ ancestry, health, and traits.
23andMe recently filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 due to financial struggles and a major 2023 data breach, leading to the resignation of CEO Anne Wojcicki.
There are multiple steps between registering on 23andMe and receiving your results.
Your homepage keeps you informed about each step of the process.
It shows what stage your sample is on and estimates the date of result delivery.
Once your kit is received at the lab, you should receive your results in 4-6 weeks.
Samples mailed from within the United States can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks to reach the lab.
Once you mail your DNA sample back, it can take up to 10 weeks to receive your results. However, many customers report receiving the results much earlier.
These times are estimates.
The company cannot guarantee that you will receive the reports on the date mentioned.
Over the past two years, 23andMe’s wait time seems to have remained under 25-30 days, which is sufficiently quick.
Several factors can impact the time it takes to get your results:
Certain samples may require additional steps to be processed successfully, which can further increase the wait time.
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The saliva collection kit is generally dispatched within 1 to 2 business days.
They also offer express shipping at a premium if required.
Once you mail them your unique kit barcode, your reports will be prepared.
In approximately 3 to 4 weeks, once they are ready, an email will inform you that your reports can be accessed in your online account.
AncestryDNA and 23andMe are two of the most popular DNA analysis companies.
The former has a much bigger database with 18 million users, while the latter has 12 million users.
This could mean that the accuracy of the former is higher than the latter.
According to the AncestryDNA website, “it can take up to 5 weeks from the date you mail in a sample for the laboratory to mark it as arrived, and 8 weeks from the date we receive your sample for your results to be ready.”This means that 23andMe processes your report much quicker (by a couple of weeks to a month) than AncestryDNA.
The information in your report depends on the services you have chosen.
23andMe offers four kinds of personal genetic services.
| Service | Description | Price |
| Ancestry | Ancestry breakdown and 30+ trait reports– 80+ personalized reports– Ancestry percentages (to the 0.1%)– 2750+ geographic regions | $99 |
| Health + Ancestry | Everything in Ancestry service +– 150+ personalized reports– FDA-authorized reports– FSA/HSA eligibility | $199 |
| 23andMe+ Premium | Everything in Health + Ancestry service +– Heart health and personalized medicine reports– Health tracker– Health action plan– Historical Matches (new feature) | $199 for the first year, $69/yr after |
| 23andMe+ Total Health | Everything in 23andMe+ Premium +– Next-generation exome sequencing– Biannual blood testing– Access to clinicians | $999 for the first year, $499/yr after |
With the information present in your DNA data, you can uncover insights into several aspects of your health and well-being.
An important part of your 23andMe result is the DNA data, which you can easily access and download from your account.
Your DNA data provides a massive amount of information that you can use to unlock thousands of insights beyond 23andMe.
Recently, a hacker advertised that they had stolen millions of “pieces of data,” breaking into the DNA relatives feature that allowed the users to compare ancestry information with users worldwide.
While 23andMe is looking into this and attempting to solve it, they have indefinitely blocked the download of DNA data as a security measure. Here’s how you can submit a request to access your DNA data.
To get your DNA raw data, follow the instructions from this page:
How to download your 23andMe Raw Data for 700+ Health Reports
23andMe cannot determine biological parentage.
The site’s ethnicity service helps link users to their genetic relatives.
The company claims an accuracy rate of more than 99% for its BRCA test.
Despite this, the test could produce false positive or negative results.
Their ancestry test traces your lineage back 8 generations.
Beyond eight generations, it’s hard to track your DNA accurately.
AncestryDNA vs 23andMe: Which Is Better For Raw Data Analysis?
MyHeritage vs 23andMe: Detailed Review and Comparison
Did You Know?
Your 23andMe DNA Data includes 700,000 markers, which can be used to learn everything from disease risk and drug sensitivities to nutritional requirements and fitness parameters. Learn more.
23andMe offers multiple services, including ancestry reports, health and wellness reports, and genetic matching with relatives.
It's one of the leading players in the genetic ancestry testing niche.
23andMe offers several tools to make the most of your ancestry test results.
One such tool is called DNA Relatives.
This remarkable technology compares you with DNA matches with a common ancestor, revealing potential relatives you were unaware of.
At 23andMe, you can purchase an ancestry report for $99 or a health+ancestry report for $199.
In addition to your health+ancestry service, if you want access to advanced reports and features throughout the year, you can upgrade to Total Health for $499.
Does 23andMe Test For Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?
CRI Genetics has rapidly gained attention for its cutting-edge approach to DNA testing.
This company was founded by the experienced molecular geneticist Dr. Alexei Fedorov in 2016.
CRI Genetics aims to empower individuals by unlocking valuable insights hidden within their DNA.
Cri Genetics focuses on providing personalized genetic analysis to individuals interested in exploring their genetic makeup, health tendencies, and wellness potential.
Moreover, Cri Genetics provides specialized reports that include:
Please note that pricing may vary, and it is advisable to refer to the official sources for the most up-to-date information.
| Similarities |
| Personalized genetic analysis: Both companies offer personalized genetic analyses to individuals interested in their genetic makeup. |
| Third-party data upload: Neither company allows any other company's data to be uploaded for analysis. |
| Accurate and reliable insights: Cri Genetics and 23andMe claim to deliver accurate and reliable genetic insights to empower individuals. |
| Reputation: Both companies are reputable and well-established in genetic testing. |
| 23andMe | CRI | |
| Sample collection type | Saliva | Cheek swab |
| DNA raw data available for download? | Yes | No |
| No. of markers analyzed | 570,000+ | 640,000+ |
| Geographical locations covered | 150 regions worldwide | N/A |
| Database size | 14 Million+ | N/A |
| FDA authorized | Yes | No |
| Turn around time | 4 weeks maximum | In 8 weeks |
| No. of traits in health report | 30 | 33 |
| Price range of tests | $99-$499 | $79-$199 |
| Third-party raw data upload allowed? | No | No |
| Rating by users | 3.6/5 (Trustpilot) | 3.5/5 (Trustpilot) |
23andMe and CRI Genetics offer ancestry services but have different strengths and features.
23andMe
CRI Genetics
It's important to thoroughly research and understand both companies' offerings before deciding. It is advisable to seek advice from healthcare experts, carefully evaluate the restrictions, and analyze the genetic testing outcomes.
Both 23andMe and Cri Genetics provide information on health services. However, it's important to note that these reports should never be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.
23andMe has extensive experience and FDA clearance, indicating that their health reports may cover a wider range of conditions in a more precise manner. In contrast, Cri Genetics may be lacking in this area.
On most review platforms, Cri Genetics gets mixed reviews. Most of the negative reviews highlight concerns about the accuracy and details of the report.
Despite good ratings on some of the platforms, many people have questioned the validity and accuracy of their results, which suggests a cause for concern.
The choice between Cri Genetics vs 23andMe ultimately depends on your needs and interests. If you're primarily interested in connecting with genetic relatives and exploring your overall ancestry composition, 23andMe's extensive customer database may be more beneficial.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a personalized genetic analysis, health reports, and wellness reports, Cri Genetics may be the better option.
Both companies have their strengths and have garnered positive reviews from customers. It's essential to research and understand what each company offers.
Remember that genetic testing can provide fascinating insights, but it's essential to approach the results cautiously and consult a healthcare professional.
Whether you choose Cri Genetics or 23andMe, taking a DNA test can be an exciting journey of self-discovery.
The cost of DNA tests varies widely based on the type.
Overall, prices reflect a broad spectrum depending on the specific test and provider.
Depending on the type and complexity, a DNA test price may vary between $99 to more than $2000.
In some cases, additional testing may be required, increasing the cost.
In some states, insurance covers a portion of certain types of genetic tests.
From the date of sample collection, the results may be ready within a few days to a few weeks.
The turnaround time is much quicker if the genetic test is crucial for timely diagnosis (such as prenatal tests).
Different types of genetic tests investigate different things and are priced accordingly.
Let’s have a look at some important types of genetic tests.
| Type of Test | Average Cost |
| Ancestry Test (direct-to-consumer) | $59-$119 |
| Health and Wellness Assessment (direct-to-consumer) | $100-$640 Xcode Life’s Special Price: starting from $30 |
| Paternity Test | At home: $130-$200 Legal: $300-$500 |
| Molecular Genetic Tests | $100-$2000 |
Genetic ancestry tests, also called genealogy tests, aim to analyze the shared genetic regions between individuals to establish their relationship.
It is the most affordable DNA testing option offered by most companies, ranging from as low as $59 to around $119.
*as of 12th September 2025
Also Read: How To Login To AncestryDNA + Health Reports At 55% Off!
Genetic tests can now help healthcare professionals and other consumers understand the risk of developing a health condition.
This enables personalized preventive measures and optimal treatment.
Further, owing to the rising popularity of nutritional supplements, genetic companies are introducing lifestyle and wellness tests (such as nutrition or fitness genetic tests) to promote better health.
Most companies price these tests at $100 to $600.
Many companies also combine health and ancestry tests and price them at around $200.
Did You Know? You can use your existing DNA data from ancestry genetic tests to get Xcode Life's reports within 24 hours!
DNA paternity tests are one of the most common types of DNA tests.
The individual and the alleged father get a genetic test, and a specialist compares the shared DNA regions between them to establish paternity.
At-home DNA paternity tests cost around $130-$200, and legal paternity tests can cost up to $500.
Molecular tests are mostly used for diagnostic purposes.
Costs vary depending on the type of test: single variant, targeted gene, gene panel, whole-exome, and whole-genome.
Whole-exome/genome sequencing: $400–$2,000+
| Company | Average Test Cost** | Notes |
| Xcode Life(DNA kit not provided) | Single tests: $30 - $69 Bundles: $139 - $199 (Ongoing sale: $89 - $149) | Cheapest and most comprehensive entry point; up to 850 traits |
| 23andMe | $99-$499 | Bundles ancestry + health |
| AncestryDNA | $99-$199 | Strong genealogical database |
| MyHeritage DNA | $89 (sale price $33) | Cheapest ancestry test |
| Family Tree DNA | $79 - $449 | Specializes in maternal and paternal haplogroups |
| Living DNA | $124 - $225 (sale price $90-$188) + shipping | Niche regional focus |
| Genomelink | Subscription: $96 annually | Trait-based uploads |
| SelfDecode | $418 - $927 (offer on ultimate bundle - $695) | Health + supplements |
| CircleDNA | $629 per DNA kit (sale price $505) | One test covers all |
| Nebula Genomics (now DNAcomplete) | $195 - $995 | Whole-genome sequencing |
**as of 12th September 2025
Some direct-to-consumer companies, like Sequencing, offer free services that allow you to upload your existing DNA data to get some basic information for free.
Many insurance plans cover most clinical genetic tests recommended by physicians. However, direct-to-consumer tests have poor insurance coverage, and only a few companies/insurance plans offer reimbursement.
Dog tests help the owners know the specific breeds to allow better care.
Despite the rising popularity of dog DNA testing, only a few companies offer quality services.
The tests can cost anywhere from $60 to $200, based on the knowledge you’re seeking and how deep you want the analysis to be.
Pregnancy DNA test costs depend on the nature of the test.
The most common types of pregnancy tests include
The cost of a full DNA test, or a whole-genome sequencing test, can vary widely, ranging from $400 to over $1,000, depending on the depth of analysis and the provider.
Some research studies offer free DNA testing if you qualify as a participant, but free consumer testing options are rare and usually limited.
Insurance may cover genetic testing if it is deemed medically necessary, such as for hereditary disease screening, but typically not for recreational or ancestry tests.
Genetic testing can be highly valuable for those seeking insights into health risks, ancestry, or personalized wellness.
Tests for specific hereditary conditions can help with early intervention and personalized health strategies.
However, it is important to understand the difference between clinical and consumer genetic testing.
Yes, direct-to-consumer companies allow individuals to order their own genetic tests for health, wellness, or ancestry without needing a doctor’s referral.
The pricing of DNA tests varies depending on the type, use, and the company offering the genetic test.
Basic ancestry tests cost around $99, while health and wellness ones can cost as much as $450.
Molecular diagnostic tests can cost anywhere from $100-$1000.
Some physical traits, such as tall stature, muscular build, fair or reddish hair, blue eyes, and certain facial features, have been historically linked to Viking ancestry. While these signs alone can’t confirm Viking DNA, genetic testing for Scandinavian ancestry (especially Y-DNA haplogroups like R1a, R1b, and I1) can provide stronger clues. Modern research shows Viking DNA is found in around 10% of Swedes and 6% of people in the UK.
The Vikings were seafaring warriors and traders from Scandinavia (modern-day Norway, Sweden, and Denmark) who thrived between the 8th and 11th centuries.
They explored as far as North America, traded across Europe, and left cultural and genetic imprints across the continent.
Evidence places their origins in Scandinavia.
Notable early raids, like the 793 CE Lindisfarne attack, mark their expansion, but archaeological records suggest Viking-like groups existed earlier.
The Scandinavian peninsula is an area shared by Norway, Sweden, and a part of northern Finland.
Nordic countries refer to all five of the northern European countries.
| Trait | Historical Link | Notes |
| 1. Tall stature | Above-average height in Viking remains | Height is influenced by diet & lifestyle |
| 2. Muscular build | Farming, rowing, and combat training | May be genetic or lifestyle-driven |
| 3. Fair/reddish hair | Common in northern Scandinavia | Not exclusive to Vikings |
| 4. Blue or light eyes | Frequent in Viking-age skeletons | Found in other European groups |
| 5. Strong jawline & cheekbones | Described in Norse sagas | Subjective & variable |
| 6. V-shaped hairline/neck hair | Folklore-based markers | Weak scientific basis |
| 7. Occupational lineage | Fishing, seafaring in family history | Suggestive but not conclusive |
Beyond physical traits, certain cultural and familial clues can also hint at Viking ancestry.
People from Scandinavian countries such as Norway and Sweden are naturally more likely to share Viking roots due to geographic proximity to Viking homelands.
Surnames with Norse origins, like Johnson (“son of John”) or Anderson (“son of Anders”), can trace back to Viking naming traditions.
Personality traits such as a love for exploration, adventure, and resilience in the face of danger echo qualities historically attributed to Vikings, though these characteristics alone cannot confirm genetic links.
In the largest Viking DNA study (442 ancient remains from 80 sites), researchers found:
The co-first author, Professor Martin Sikora from the University of Copenhagen, commented, "We found that Vikings weren’t just Scandinavians in their genetic ancestry, as we analysed genetic influences in their DNA from Southern Europe and Asia, which has never been contemplated before."
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? This allows you to take proactive measures for health conditions, even before the symptoms appear, thereby preventing it. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Here's how people like you have used their ancestry data to explore Xcode Life
While the Vikings as a group are gone, their descendants live across Scandinavia and Europe.
Some communities in Norway and Sweden maintain Viking heritage through re-enactments and reconstructed villages.
In a recent study, scientists examined 300 ancient human genomes from Scandinavia that spanned over 2000 years.
Many people share their DNA with the Vikings, and a Viking DNA test can help you understand your specific Scandinavian ancestry traits!
These tests examine your DNA and compare it to that of your Viking ancestors to determine how many common segments you share with them; the more segments, the closer you are to the Vikings.
Some companies that offer Viking DNA tests include:
While Viking ancestry tests can provide fascinating insights, there are important limitations to keep in mind:
Takeaway: Viking DNA tests can point to regional Scandinavian ancestry and haplogroups, but they cannot prove Viking identity with certainty. Results should be viewed as suggestive, not definitive.
| Haplogroup | Region | Historical Relevance |
| I1 | Northern Europe (Norway, Sweden, Denmark) | Strong Norse and Viking association; common in regions historically linked to Norse migration |
| R1a | Eastern Europe & Scandinavia | Prevalent in peninsular Scandinavia; subclades linked to Viking migrations into the British Isles |
| R1b | Western Europe | Dominant in Western Europe; its presence in Viking contexts supports some Viking-era spread, but it is widespread and not uniquely Viking |
Vikings are hypothesized to have originated from modern-day Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Not definitively, but high Scandinavian ancestry plus matching haplogroups strengthens the case.
Historical sources suggest tall, strong builds with fair skin, light or red hair, and blue or light eyes.
They used patronymics, e.g., Eriksson (“son of Erik”), not fixed surnames.
No, blue eyes were common, but green, hazel, and brown also occurred.
Viking ancestry is best understood through a mix of genetics, history, and archaeology. Physical appearance offers only suggestive hints, while DNA results can highlight Scandinavian heritage without definitively proving Viking lineage.
https://www.theguardian.com/science/blog/2013/feb/25/viking-ancestors-astrology
https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(22)01468-4
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200916113544.htm
Even if they don’t seem connected, hormone treatment and weight gain can happen at the same time. Progesterone is a common suspect, since it’s often used in birth control and hormone therapy. Some clinical findings suggest a link between progesterone use and gradual weight gain (especially in younger individuals) while others show little to no effect. Research doesn’t offer a simple answer, so let’s understand why progesterone's effects aren’t necessarily the same for everyone.
Progesterone is a natural steroid hormone mainly produced by the adrenal glands and gonads, including the ovaries in women and the testes in men.
In women, its production increases after ovulation when the corpus luteum forms from the released egg.
The corpus luteum is the primary source of progesterone for the first ten weeks of pregnancy until the placenta takes over.
Progesterone, made from cholesterol, plays a vital role in reproductive health.
It aids in preparing the uterine lining for a fertilized egg and regulates menstrual cycles.
In early pregnancy, it nourishes the endometrium in the uterus.
As pregnancy continues, progesterone levels rise, preventing uterine contractions and priming the breasts for breastfeeding.
People respond differently to progesterone.
Some report gaining weight, but research does not consistently confirm this effect for everyone.
For example, a study that followed around 200 teenage girls for 18 months found that those using progesterone-based contraception gained more weight than those on other forms.
However, a separate study on teens who were using Nexplanon, a progesterone-releasing implant, didn’t show any increased risk of weight gain compared to users of other birth control types.
A larger review of available studies also found little evidence to support a strong connection between progesterone-only birth control and weight gain.
Even when reported, weight gain was minimal.
Since each body reacts differently, it’s impossible to identify a real difference with precision.
Progesterone usually helps regulate metabolism and support fat processing.
Its absence could thus cause weight gain, particularly during perimenopause and menopause.
This is often due to hormonal changes, since progesterone levels drop more quickly than estrogen levels do.
This sets up an ‘estrogen dominance’, a hormonal imbalance that can encourage fat storage, especially around your abdomen.
Weight gain while taking progesterone can happen for several reasons, such as:
Taking progesterone, especially in high doses or without proper guidance, can lead to various side effects, including:
Most side effects are mild, though some may turn severe.
For example, it can cause blood clotting issues, leading to leg swelling, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Uncommon but severe reactions include vision problems, seizures, and depression.
Consult your doctor if you observe any unusual symptoms.
Consult your doctor if you notice any new or unexplained physical or emotional changes while taking progesterone.
If you face symptoms like emotional discomfort, unusual discharge, difficulty urinating, or a persistent cough, do not wait for them to go away on their own.
Even changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels that feel different from your usual state deserve attention from a medical professional.
If an existing condition worsens after starting the medication, or if you're unsure whether something you're experiencing is related, it's best to consult your doctor.
Noticing and acting on early signs can make a real difference in your treatment journey.
Managing weight on progesterone involves balancing hormones and adjusting lifestyle habits.
Here are a few valuable tips:
Losing weight while on progesterone depends on the underlying hormone balance in your body.
If weight issues are linked to low progesterone levels, supplementing with progesterone may support your weight loss goals by correcting estrogen dominance.
When your hormones are out of balance, your body could resist change, dampening your efforts until your hormone balance is stabilized.
Progesterone weight gain can be managed by focusing on a balanced diet, proper sleep, regular exercise, and stress control.
Foods packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats can reduce hunger, while exercise boosts metabolism.
Reducing stress helps balance hormones, and quality sleep supports overall weight management.
In specific situations, taking progesterone without estrogen is sometimes recommended.
It may be a safer option for those who are sensitive to estrogen or have a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers.
During perimenopause, when estrogen levels often fluctuate and progesterone levels drop, adding progesterone can help restore balance and ease related symptoms.
Some women report improved sleep, reduced night sweats, and fewer heat sensations with progesterone-only treatment.
It may also have a calming effect that helps with mood and sleep quality.
For women with a uterus, estrogen alone increases the risk of endometrial cancer by thickening the uterine lining.
In these cases, progesterone is needed to counterbalance estrogen's effects and prevent the uterine lining's thickening.
While taking progesterone, refrain from activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you are sure how the medication affects you.
When taking progesterone, following some precautions to avoid side effects and stay safe is essential.
The most common problem with progesterone is low levels of the hormone, which can cause the following:
While high progesterone is usually not a concern, in rare cases, it may be linked to ovarian or adrenal cancer.
The Female Hormone: Estrogen and Its Influence on Women's Wellness
How Genes and Hormones Interact to Influence Your Health
Pros And Cons Of Hormone Therapy For Breast Cancer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558960
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/204332#google_vignette
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6742552
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27567593
https://drbrighten.com/does-progesterone-cause-weight-gain
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324014
https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms-and-side-effects
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327326
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604017.html
https://www.endocrinewellness.com/hormonal-weight-gain
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10312-estrogen-dependent-cancers
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/in-depth/hormone-therapy/ART-20046372
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19484-progesterone-capsules
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24562-progesterone
Diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) is common among the seniors, right? Think again! Surgeons at Yale warn people as young as 20 to be aware of the warning signs of colorectal cancer. With a growing number of people in the younger generations being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, the number of incidences in the older generations is declining. So, why is colorectal cancer rising in young people? Let’s explore several factors, what experts need to say, and the best way for youngsters to lower their risk of this cancer.
A 2023 report by the American Cancer Society gave us some striking facts regarding the trend of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC):
This figure was double that of the incidence in 1995.
A 2025 Lancet study reported that in recent years (2013-2017), the incidence rate of early-onset colorectal cancer was the highest in Australia, followed by the USA, New Zealand, and South Korea.
The lowest incidences were reported in Uganda and India.
The rate of rising cases of colorectal cancer in young people is alarming, prompting researchers to determine the key drivers of this trend.
Whether we accept it or not, there has been a significant shift in the way we live today—from our diet to our working schedules, routines, stress levels, and sleep quality.
Here are a few lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the uptick in colorectal cancer cases among the younger generation.
There is substantial evidence that eating an unhealthy diet, that is high in processed meat, fat, and low in fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, may contribute to an early onset of colorectal cancer.
Studies have shown that obesity and being overweight may increase an individual’s risk of getting early-onset colorectal cancer.
According to Case Comprehensive Cancer Centre’s electronic health records, more than 50% of younger adults with colorectal cancer were overweight, and 17% were obese.
Studies have shown that an increase in TV time (which indicates a more sedentary or inactive behavior) was also linked to a higher risk of early-onset colorectal cancer.
Another important factor contributing to early-onset colorectal cancer in young people is the gut microbiome (bacteria in the gut).
There is some evidence to suggest that generational-level shifts in the composition of the human gut microbiome may be associated with cancer of the gastrointestinal system, including colorectal cancer.
This means that the younger generations have been exposed to different factors by a certain age than the generations before at the same age.
These factors contribute to a greater risk profile for diseases, including colorectal cancer, in the younger population than in the generations before.
Did you know early-life exposure and antibiotic use in younger generations may have altered their gut microbiome?
This may have led to inflammation of the gut, immune dysfunction, and an increased susceptibility to colorectal cancer.
In a 2023 study, researchers found that long-term or recurrent antibiotic use increased the risk of early-onset colorectal carcinoma.
This effect was found to be stronger in people with a specific variant of the fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) gene.
A recent study highlighted that early life exposure to colibactin, a bacterial toxin, may be causing an alarming rise in early-onset colorectal cancer.
Colibactin exposure in early childhood causes a distinct change in the genetic makeup of the DNA of colon cells.
This may be a contributing factor.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals like asbestos, industrial pollutants, and particulate air pollutants may also increase the risk of early-onset colorectal cancer.
A 2022 study found that outdoor particulate matter resulted in a 25% increased risk of colorectal cancer.
So far, we have examined the modifiable risk factors of colorectal cancer.
However, factors like genes and heredity are non-modifiable risk factors for the condition.
Two hereditary syndromes that have a strong link to an increased risk of colorectal cancer are Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP).
This condition is thanks to inherited mutations (abnormal changes) in the MMR (mismatch repair) genes like MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM.
These genes disrupt the body’s ability to repair DNA errors, resulting in an increased risk for various cancers, like colorectal cancer, at a young age.
According to the American Cancer Society, the lifetime risk of colorectal cancer in people with Lynch syndrome can be as high as 50%.
FAP is a genetic condition that causes growth of numerous adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum, which significantly increase the risk of CRC.
People with FAP have a near 100% lifetime risk of developing CRC, if left untreated.
Mutations in the APC gene may cause FAP.
A family history of colorectal cancer in first-degree relatives also elevates the risk of developing the condition.
Early-onset colorectal cancer is a strong indicator of a possible genetic component.
Few biological mechanisms are at play when it comes to early-onset colorectal cancer.
However, these are still under study.
A study was conducted among 2500 middle-aged South Koreans to determine their biological age.
The study included a combination of physical, biochemical, and hormonal markers.
622 of the participants showed an increased risk of CRC.
This shows that people with an increased biological age were more likely to develop distal CRC.
There is a growing body of research that suggests biological or epigenetic aging plays a vital role in the early detection of cancer in adults younger than 55.
Chronic inflammation may drive the growth and development of colorectal cancer by dysregulating molecular pathways within the immune system.
When there is chronic inflammation in the body, there is an increased production of inflammatory mediators and DNA damage.
Chronic inflammation also predisposes individuals to cancer by promoting the accumulation of genetic mutations (abnormal changes in the genes).
These processes disrupt the normal cellular function and promote the development and progression of cancers, including colorectal cancer.
While an increasing number of youth and people younger than 50 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it is important to note that the diagnosis is being made at advanced stages of the disease.
This shows a glaring gap in screening.
Unfortunately, current guidelines have not fully addressed this shift.
Many younger adults, therefore, fall outside the eligibility window for routine screenings, leaving a critical gap where early disease often goes undetected.
This misalignment delays timely diagnosis and treatment, allowing colorectal cancer to progress to more advanced stages before it is diagnosed.
In addition to screening challenges, initial and early symptoms of CRC in younger individuals, like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel movement, are often misattributed to benign conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or haemorrhoids.
As a result, diagnostic lag becomes a significant barrier, often stretching months or even years, and contributing to poorer outcomes and higher mortality in early-onset CRC cases.
For the reasons mentioned above, there is a dire need to shift from age-based to risk-based screening for colorectal cancer.
Trials are being conducted worldwide to identify high-risk individuals based on:
Preventing early onset colorectal cancer in at-risk individuals is twofold: Regular screening and management of lifestyle factors. These include:
Increasing dietary fiber intake is known to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Here’s what fibre does in the gut:
This reduces the contact between harmful substances and the colon lining.
Fiber fermentation in the gut is known to produce short-chain fatty acids, some of which may have tumor-suppressive effects.
Some dietary interventions to follow include:
The dietitian-nutritionist team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center recommends people to consume at least 25 g of fiber per day.
“Consume the bulk of your fiber from whole foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fruit,” advises Clinical dietitian-nutritionist Cara Anselmo, MS, RDN.
Studies show that higher levels of physical activity reduce the relative risk of colon cancer by up to 20%.
Some studies have shown that weight training exercises may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. However, this area requires more research.
Engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity for 150 minutes during the week could reduce colon cancer risk by 8%.
In fact, scientists found that any kind of physical activity (light, moderate or intense) contributed to decreasing colorectal cancer risk.
Physical activity contributes to weight loss, which in turn reduces insulin resistance and, subsequently, the risk for colorectal cancer.
Research suggests that microbiome-friendly practices like probiotic consumption and reduced antibiotic usage may help prevent colon cancer.
Frequent and inadvertent use of antibiotics can cause dysbiosis (an imbalance of bacteria in the gut).
Dysbiosis has links to the development of a variety of diseases, including colorectal cancer.
So, reduced antibiotic use and therapeutics like probiotics can improve the gut microbiome and may help fight early-onset colorectal cancer in youth.
Scientists have identified a toxin called colibactin that could be a new cause for colon cancer.
Escherichia coli bacteria that live in your colon and rectum produce colibactin, which can alter your DNA.
Early childhood exposure to this toxin may increase the individual’s risk for early-onset colorectal cancer.
Some foods that lead to inflammation in the body could cause colorectal cancer. Some of these include:
In addition to these foods, a lack of fibre-rich and nutritious foods also contributes to the increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Three viruses– Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and John Cunningham virus (JCV) are known to cause colorectal cancer.
Some ways to reduce the risk of colon cancer include:
It is also important for people at risk to undergo regular screenings to identify the earliest signs of colorectal cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
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