The caregiver voice: Insights into caring for the young adult colorectal cancer patient.

According to data from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology & End Results (SEER) Program, since 1994 statistics show a 50% increase in young onset colorectal cancer incidence in the 20-49 age group. Researchers estimate that by 2030, more than 1 in 10 colon cancers and 1 in 4 rectal cancers will be diagnosed in young adults under 50 years of age. Based on these alarming statistics and understanding the vital role caregivers play throughout the cancer continuum, our study explores the emotional and psychosocial implications for caregivers of young adult colorectal cancer survivors.