Reporters and editors published a new analysis in March 2026 revealing colon cancer has been named the deadliest cancer in the United States, replacing breast cancer and lung cancer. The analysis found diagnoses among people under 50 in the United States are increasing.

The reporters and editors spoke with over 100 patients, clinicians, researchers, and economists to analyze how colon cancer affects families, careers, and financial stability in younger patients. The analysis was conducted during March, which is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

"Whatever this change in exposure was, it's having a much larger influence on cancer development in the rectum," said Rebecca Siegel, a cancer epidemiologist.