For decades, colon cancer was considered a disease primarily affecting those over 50. However, this narrative is rapidly changing. Gastroenterologists across the United States are reporting a troubling increase in diagnoses among individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Dr Trisha Pasricha, a gastroenterologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, expressed her concern on The Mel Robbins Podcast, stating, "Something that I am worried about a lot—I think every scientist in the country right now, and in the world, thinks is one of the most important scientific problems of our day—is why more and more younger people are getting colorectal cancer." She highlighted four common symptoms of early-onset colorectal cancer, which also apply to colorectal cancer at any age.
Abdominal Pain
Persistent abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating that do not resolve with common remedies such as dietary changes, over-the-counter antacids, or rest should be taken seriously. Many people mistakenly attribute these symptoms to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or simple indigestion, especially if the pain comes and goes. However, there is a distinct difference between occasional digestive issues and pain that persists for weeks or months.
Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding is one of the most noticeable warning signs, yet it is often dismissed. People frequently assume that blood in the toilet is due to hemorrhoids, blaming it on diet or self-treating with over-the-counter remedies. While hemorrhoids can cause minor bleeding, persistent bleeding should be investigated. Young adults often ignore this sign due to embarrassment or the belief that it is trivial. Any rectal bleeding that lasts more than a few days or recurs warrants medical attention.
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia is a blood condition that many young adults, particularly women, dismiss as a normal part of life rather than a potential warning sign of colon cancer. Dr Pasricha emphasized its importance: when a blood test shows smaller red blood cells, it indicates iron loss. "This is really important in women because, when women have iron-deficiency anemia, it can feel like fatigue—you are tired, you get the blood test. Oftentimes, people will say this has to be due to your period because we lose a lot of iron, we lose blood with our periods. If you have these other symptoms or you are like, 'Wait a minute, but my periods are kind of light,' I really want you to pause and not brush this aside," she warned.
Changes in Bowel Habits
The fourth warning sign is arguably the most important and most ignored because it can be vague. Any change in bowel habits—such as new diarrhea, constipation, or a shift in your established pattern—can be a red flag for colon cancer. Dr Pasricha noted, "Maybe suddenly your poo went from being really thick to really, really thin." She cited high-profile celebrity cases where the only symptom was a change in pattern. "I thought it was my coffee or something else, but then I changed the coffee, and it did not go away. If you are worried, if something is off, do not wait. Do not brush it aside as normal. Do not be embarrassed by it. Just run it by your doctor," she added.
When to See a Doctor
Seeking medical attention promptly can make a significant difference. Dr Pasricha advised, "Anything that is new for you that seems to stick around—get attention." She referred to a study showing that individuals with three or four of the four symptoms had a sixfold higher likelihood of having colorectal cancer than those with fewer symptoms. "I would get help for any of these symptoms—no more than one or two weeks if it has persisted," she concluded.
