Boston researchers discover differences in colon cancer tumor cells in younger patients
Researchers in Boston have identified specific differences in tumor cells found in younger colorectal cancer patients compared to older ones. This discovery could lead to more targeted treatments for a demographic that is seeing a 3% annual increase in diagnosis rates.
Why it matters
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults, and understanding the biological differences in these tumors is critical for developing effective, age-specific therapies.
BOSTON — As colorectal cancer rates continue to rise among younger adults, a team of Boston researchers has identified differences in tumor cells that could potentially lead to new treatments.The findings offer hope to survivors like Kristen Vincent of Orleans, who was just 37 years old when she learned she had stage 3 colorectal cancer."I was actually staged on my youngest daughter's second birthday. So, I found out that I had stage three cancer on her second birthday, and that was my biggest fear was missing their lives," Vincent said.Her treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute included 28 days of radiation, surgery, eight rounds of chemotherapy and 11 months with an ileostomy bag.Throughout her battle, Vincent said she tried to maintain a positive outlook."Every day I would tell myself, cancer is not going to kill me today," Vincent said.Now, Vincent has had five years of clean scans.
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