A disturbing new health trend is emerging across India and the globe. Colorectal cancer, a disease traditionally associated with older adults, is now aggressively targeting younger populations at an alarming pace. Recent data reveals a shocking surge in cases among teenagers and young adults, making awareness of early symptoms more critical than ever.
Alarming Statistics Reveal a New At-Risk Group
Data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) paints a grim picture. From 1999 to 2020, colorectal cancer cases skyrocketed by 185% in adults aged 20 to 24. Even more concerning is the situation among teenagers. The same data shows a staggering 333% increase in colorectal cancer among adolescents aged 15 to 19. The global impact is devastating, with the World Health Organization reporting that colorectal cancer led to over 930,000 deaths in 2020 alone.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer and Its Risk Factors
As defined by the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is a disease that begins in the colon or the rectum. When it originates in the colon, it is specifically termed colon cancer. Several factors can increase a person's risk, including age, a family history of the disease, and inherited genetic mutations like HNPCC and FAP. A history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and various environmental and lifestyle factors also play a crucial role.
Six Critical Warning Signs You Must Not Ignore
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a renowned gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, has highlighted the urgent need for vigilance. "More and more young people are getting diagnosed with colon cancer," Dr. Sethi stated in a recent Instagram video. Early detection dramatically improves treatment success. Here are six symptoms that demand medical attention.
Blood in Your Stool: The sight of blood after a bowel movement—whether in the stool, the toilet bowl, or on the toilet paper—should never be dismissed. Rectal bleeding is a primary warning sign of colon cancer.
Change in Stool Shape or Size: Pay close attention to your bowel movements. Dr. Sethi warns that a noticeable change in the shape and size of your stool could indicate a narrowing of the colon, often caused by a tumour. If such changes are persistent, schedule a doctor's appointment immediately.
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain in your belly should not be brushed off as a simple dietary issue. Ongoing cramping, bloating, or general discomfort that does not resolve with typical remedies is a major symptom of colon cancer.
Unintentional Weight Loss: Losing weight without any changes to your diet or exercise routine is a significant red flag for various cancers, including colon cancer. If the number on your scale is dropping unexpectedly, it is essential to consult your doctor.
Unexplained Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired, even after a full night's rest, is a symptom that is often overlooked. People frequently mistake it for general tiredness, but persistent, unexplained fatigue can be a crucial sign of colon cancer.
Iron Deficiency Anaemia: This symptom is often silent and may only be detected through a routine blood test. "Iron deficiency anaemia can happen even if you don't notice any obvious bleeding," Dr. Sethi explained. Tumours in the colon can cause slow, continuous bleeding, leading to this condition.
The Bottom Line: Awareness Saves Lives
While the symptoms listed above can point to colon cancer, Dr. Sethi emphasises that they are also associated with many other medical conditions. "Keep in mind these issues can be seen with a lot of other medical conditions, so make sure to check with your doctor," he advised. However, being aware of these signs is the first and most vital step. In the face of rising cases among the youth, early diagnosis can truly mean the difference between life and death.
