Overview

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affecting millions globally, increases early-onset colorectal cancer risk by up to 24% in adults under 50.
• Men with NAFLD face a 17% higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to women, likely due to lifestyle and biological differences.
• The study analyzed 4.6 million South Korean adults aged 20–49 over a decade, identifying 2,733 cases of early-onset colorectal cancer.
• Researchers suggest NAFLD-related inflammation may damage DNA and disrupt gut microbiome balance, contributing to cancer development.
• The findings highlight the need for expanded colorectal cancer screening, particularly for younger populations with NAFLD.