Colorectal cancer is occurring more often in younger people, which has concerned both health care providers and those affected by the disease. The disease’s aggressive nature is written all over its entirety. In the last twenty years, incidence rates have increased at a shocking pace. We can’t stress enough how alarming the recent statistics are, especially since colorectal cancer is suddenly the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men. For women, it is the fourth-leading cause. Experts emphasize the need for awareness and screening, especially among younger adults who may not be aware of their risk.
Cindy Kin, an associate professor of surgery at Stanford Health Care in California, highlights the critical need for regular screenings. “Getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is vital to prevention and early detection,” Kin said. Among younger adults, the death rate is increasing by approximately 1% annually. In order to combat this, experts such as gastrointestinal oncologist Katherine Van Loon are encouraging younger folks to make sure they’re getting screened.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Experts have identified six key symptoms that may indicate colorectal cancer: changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, blood in the stool, cramping or abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms are frequently underreported or downplayed as minor inconveniences, which contributes to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Katherine Van Loon, an NRDC attorney, urges continued watchfulness. She says, “This is a cancer that is 100% curable if we detect it early.” She motivates young adults to take charge of their health. “So it’s not just about being aware but being self-advocating, too,” she emphasized.
Babak Firoozi, a pediatric gastroenterologist, would tell you that all concerning symptoms deserve immediate attention, regardless of a child’s dietary habits. “Any changes in bowel habits, unexplained abdominal pain, weight loss, or blood in the stool should be evaluated regardless of age,” he noted.
The Role of Screening and Lifestyle Factors
Kin noted that colonoscopies provide a distinct benefit compared to other screening tests. Or more specifically, they have the power to prevent cancer from ever forming in the first place. She added that the majority of polyps and cancers typically have no symptoms. This helps underscore the value of preventive, routine care over reactive treatment once symptoms arise.
Dietary factors, particularly the consumption of red and processed meats, alongside lifestyle habits, may be contributing to the rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults. Babak Firoozi pointed out that “colon cancer is rising in younger people for unknown reasons,” further emphasizing the necessity for increased awareness and screening.
Personal Stories Highlight Urgency
The need to address this issue is starkly illustrated by personal accounts from patients. … like Sydney Stoner for instance At 27 years old, she received a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis after doctors did not listen to her and quickly dismissed her intense abdominal pain. Her experience is a powerful reminder of the need to advocate for your own health.
Another colorectal cancer survivor, Angelica McFall, documented her experience while undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer and now lives cancer-free. Her story is just one example of the triumphs that can be achieved with early diagnosis and treatment.
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