Young-onset colorectal cancer quality of life and psychosocial concerns

Colorectal cancer (CRC) in younger adults poses unique challenges in multiple quality of life domains. There are numerous potential downstream effects of CRC treatments (surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy) that may be felt more deeply by younger patients, not just in physical symptoms but also in emotional, psychological, and social aspects of their lives. Many of these domains overlap, and the effects are difficult to quantify, but healthcare providers need to be aware of the consequences that CRC diagnosis and its treatment can have on younger adults. Herein, we review the quality of life and psychosocial concerns related to young-onset CRC spanning from perceived physical symptoms to stressors in finances, occupation, interpersonal relationships, and fear of cancer recurrence.