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Early Screening Helps Detect Colon Cancer in Young Adults. Take Steps Now to Lower Your Risk.

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Health & Wellness

More colon cancer cases are being found in adults under 50.  A new collection of research suggests that a surge in early screening may be tied to many of the recent cases. Lowering the screening age has helped doctors make a diagnosis and treat the cancer at an earlier stage. While the reason for this increase is unknown, understanding contributing factors and taking proactive steps can empower young adults to better manage their health.

Why are cancer rates rising?

The increase in cancer diagnoses among young adults is linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

  • Genetics and family history: While some cases are linked to known genetic syndromes, a significant portion of early-onset colorectal cancer occurs without a clear family history or known genetic cause.
  • Lifestyle factors: Obesity, smoking, alcohol use, poor diet, and lack of exercise are major contributors to increased cancer risk.
  • Environmental exposures: Research suggests that certain bacterial toxins, like colibactin produced by E. coli, can mutate DNA and may be more prevalent in younger individuals with colon cancer.
  • Delays in diagnosis: Young adults may overlook early symptoms or face misdiagnosis because cancer is often perceived as a condition that affects older people.

Symptoms to look out for:

  • Rectal bleeding: It can appear as bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. While often associated with hemorrhoids, it’s important to get checked if bleeding continues or is accompanied by other symptoms.
  • Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that isn’t relieved by having one can be signs of colon cancer.
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort: Symptoms include cramping, bloating, or continuous pain in the stomach area.
  • Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without making changes to diet or exercise can be a warning sign of various cancers.
  • Fatigue and weakness: Cancer-related fatigue is a constant exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest.
  • Iron deficiency anemia: Low iron levels, especially in young adults without a clear explanation, can indicate internal bleeding from colon cancer.
  • Thin or narrow stools: This can be a sign of a narrowing in the colon, potentially due to a tumor.

Steps to lower your risk:

Taking preventive measures can make a big difference in reducing cancer risk. Some helpful lifestyle changes include:

  • Being physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week.
  • Limiting red meat and avoiding processed meat.
  • Eating a healthy diet. Start by filling at least two-thirds of your plate with vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and beans. Fill the remaining one-third with lean animal protein or plant-based protein.
  • Limiting alcohol consumption.
  • Don’t smoke, vape, or use any other form of tobacco.

If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, schedule a screening today. Early detection saves lives.

Marianna Zeichen, MD, is the associate medical director of Jackson Medical Group’s colorectal and minimally invasive surgery specialist practice. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Zeichen, call 305-585-4564 or visit jacksonhealth.org.