New research and expert commentary are sounding the alarm: colon cancer is no longer a disease only of older adults. According to a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, younger people are increasingly being affected, and the key to saving lives may be recognising the warning signs early.
Five Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore
1. Blood in stool – Bright red or dark tar-like stool can signal internal bleeding in the colon.
2. Change in stool shape/size – Stool that becomes thin, ribbon-like or has persistent changes may indicate narrowing of the colon by a tumour.
3. Persistent abdominal pain or cramps – New-onset, recurrent tummy pain, bloating or cramps might hint at more than just indigestion.
4. Unexplained weight loss & fatigue – Losing weight without trying, or constant tiredness/easily getting exhausted, can be symptoms of underlying colon cancer.
5. Iron-deficiency anaemia – Especially in younger men or women who aren’t menstruating, unexplained low iron or anaemia may point to hidden bleeding in the gut.
Why the Rise in Young Adults?
Studies show that individuals born in the 1990s have more than double the risk of colon cancer compared to similarly aged people born decades earlier. Lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, and reduced physical activity are being looked at as possible drivers behind this troubling trend.
What to Do
Don’t dismiss symptoms — especially if they persist for more than a few weeks.
●Consult a doctor if you notice any red-flag symptoms, even if you’re under 50.
●Screening matters — Colorectal cancer caught early has a much higher survival rate.
●Adopt healthy habits — Balanced diet, exercise, avoiding excess alcohol/smoking can help mitigate risk.
Colon cancer may no longer be just a concern for older adults. Young people must stay alert to these warning signs, seek timely medical advice, and take preventive steps. Early action can make all the difference.
