Colorectal cancer has long been considered a disease that predominantly affects older adults. However, an alarming trend has emerged over the past three decades—rates of colon cancer among young people have been steadily rising, even as diagnoses among older individuals decline. In 2019, an unsettling 20% of colorectal cancer cases were discovered in people under the age of 55, a stark increase from just 11% in 1995. This shift highlights the urgent need for greater awareness, as younger patients are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages, making treatment more difficult and outcomes less favorable.

Late Diagnoses: A Major Concern for Young Patients

One of the most troubling aspects of this trend is that younger individuals often experience delays in diagnosis. By the time colorectal cancer is detected in this age group, it is frequently in advanced stages, which makes it more challenging to treat. This delay can be attributed to a lack of awareness about symptoms, both among the general public and within the medical community. As a result, experts predict that colorectal cancer could be responsible for approximately 53,000 deaths in the United States this year alone.

To combat this growing issue, it is critical for younger people to be vigilant about the early warning signs of colorectal cancer and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms. Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early detection through screening and proactive monitoring of any concerning symptoms.

Six Key Warning Signs to Watch Out For

Here are six key symptoms that young individuals should be mindful of, according to leading medical experts. If you or someone you know experiences any of these signs, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

1. Rectal Bleeding

One of the most common and alarming symptoms of colorectal cancer in young people is rectal bleeding. Nearly half of those diagnosed report seeing blood in the toilet bowl or on toilet paper. Dr. Andrea Cercek, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, explains that in younger patients, tumors often form in the colon’s last section or the rectum. As a result, the blood is typically bright red, a warning sign that should not be ignored. While rectal bleeding can also be caused by conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or hemorrhoids, any instance of this symptom warrants immediate medical evaluation.

2. Changes in Bowel Habits

Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent constipation, diarrhea, or both, can indicate the presence of a tumor. Dr. Tiago Biachi, a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center, likens a tumor in the colon to a clog in a pipe, disrupting the normal flow. Additionally, patients may notice their stool becoming thinner or feeling like they haven’t completely emptied their bowels after going. Dr. Michael Cecchini, co-director of the colorectal program at Yale Cancer Center, points out that unusually narrow stools are a cause for concern, particularly if tumors line the inside of the colon.

3. Abdominal Pain or Cramping

Persistent abdominal pain, especially when it coincides with meals, may signal colorectal cancer. Dr. Sonia Kupfer, director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic at the University of Chicago, advises that any new or unusual abdominal pain should prompt a visit to the doctor. Although many other conditions, such as indigestion, kidney stones, or urinary tract infections, can also cause abdominal discomfort, it’s important to rule out cancer as a potential cause.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

A sudden and unexplained loss of weight could be another red flag. Tumors can release hormones that suppress appetite, leading to rapid weight loss. Dr. Biachi notes that losing 10 pounds or 5% of body weight within six months, without intentional effort, is a significant reason to consult a healthcare provider. While weight loss can also be associated with other conditions like diabetes or hyperthyroidism, it should not be dismissed, especially when combined with other symptoms.

5. Anemia

Bleeding from colorectal tumors can gradually lead to anemia, a condition marked by a lack of healthy red blood cells. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, cold extremities, hair loss, brittle nails, brain fog, and shortness of breath. Anemia in younger women is often attributed to menstruation, but if it’s coupled with other symptoms like rectal bleeding, further investigation is needed.

6. Extreme Fatigue

Cancer-related fatigue is another common symptom, with about 8% of younger colorectal cancer patients reporting exhaustion before being diagnosed. Tumor-generated hormones can deplete energy levels, making patients feel completely worn out. Fatigue may also be misdiagnosed as a symptom of other conditions like IBS or hemorrhoids, so it’s important to advocate for further evaluation if extreme tiredness is present.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes in colorectal cancer cases, and screenings are the most effective way to catch cancer in its early stages. Dr. Cecchini stresses that screenings usually begin at age 45, but those with a family history of colon cancer or experiencing symptoms may qualify for earlier testing. A colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps and identify cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.

“Catching cancer early through screening or paying attention to symptoms allows for diagnoses at earlier stages when it’s more treatable and hopefully curable,” Dr. Cecchini explains. “We still cure the majority of people with this cancer every year.”

Raising Awareness to Save Lives

As colorectal cancer rates continue to rise among younger people, increasing awareness of symptoms and encouraging early screenings are essential. By staying vigilant and advocating for timely medical evaluations, individuals can improve their chances of catching the disease early and successfully overcoming it. With the guidance of medical professionals and advancements in treatment, there is hope for a future where colorectal cancer can be diagnosed, treated, and cured in more patients than ever before.

Source: New York Post