Why do some kids get colon cancer as adults?
Early-Life Mutagenesis and the Rise of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Cancer may begin decades before diagnosis — with the first mutations occurring in early childhood.
Most people assume cancer develops from long-term lifestyle habits, not from events in toddlerhood.
Practical Takeaways
Consider probiotics or diet changes that reduce pks+ E. coli — like increasing fiber and reducing processed meats — especially for young children.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Cancer may begin decades before diagnosis — with the first mutations occurring in early childhood.
Most people assume cancer develops from long-term lifestyle habits, not from events in toddlerhood.
Practical Takeaways
Consider probiotics or diet changes that reduce pks+ E. coli — like increasing fiber and reducing processed meats — especially for young children.
Publication
Journal
Cancer Discovery
Year
2026
Authors
Ludmil B. Alexandrov, Paul Brennan, Michael R. Stratton
Related Content
Claims (2)
DNA damage from certain bacteria in early childhood may lead to colorectal cancer that appears later in adulthood.
Exposure to certain bacteria that produce DNA-damaging substances in early childhood may lead to genetic changes in the colon that can eventually result in colorectal cancer many years later.