The last time I heard about colon cancer, it was someone’s death sentence in her 70s.
But that was 20 years ago, I was just a child, and the world’s mindset is that cancer is for older adults.
Times have changed, and so has the cancer pattern. I once read that even people who are not yet in their 50s are diagnosed with colon cancer.
This event is not accidental; that’s why experts are alarmed by this shocking turn. Here’s what you need to know further about colon cancer and its rising trend among people under 50.
The Trend that Made Experts Concerned
In the last few decades, research about cancer has been improving the treatment and reducing the deaths caused by it, except for one category.
Colon cancer is a rising trend among younger people. It is reported that patients as early as their 20s are diagnosed and dying from this type of cancer.
Despite the research advances in cancer treatment, colon cancer is a challenging complication to resolve in modern medicine.
Why Does it Affect the Young People?
Experts are alarmed by the rising trend of colorectal cancer among young people due to numerous causes. One common denominator that they can easily say is the lifestyle.
Here are the reasons why colorectal cancer is affecting our youth:
Diets are Problematic to the Gut
Foods that are low to no fiber, such as sugary beverages and highly processed foods, make the gut health weak and vulnerable to certain diseases.
Less Physical Movement
Always stocked or focused on being sedentary. Not considering the role of physical movement in overall health.
Shrugging Off the Early Symptoms
Early symptoms relevant to gut health are always shrugged off. Not even an early detection by the doctor is considered the primary course of action.
Changes in Gut Bacteria
The gut microbiome, from antibiotics, diet, and even stress, contributes to early colorectal cancer. This area is currently under further medical studies.
Warning Signs to Remember
Colon cancer is one of the most notorious cancer types ever known. Knowing these symptoms serves as your guide to determine if you might have one:
- Extreme fatigue
- The urge to defecate once again
- Changes in bowel movement
- Cramping or recurring stomach pain
- Sudden loss of weight
- Blood in the stool
Smart Tip for Colorectal Cancer Screening
Experts have confirmed that the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer is as early as 45.
However, if you have a family history of digestive problems, gut health complications, or colon cancer, ask for an immediate or early screening.
Early screening for colorectal cancer is one way to determine how healthy and strong your gut is.
Why is it Dangerous to the Youth?
Young people have the mindset of “eating whatever they want” just because we tend to assume that they will not die anytime soon.
But the existence of colorectal cancer proves that it’s not because of age, but the lifestyle that young people have right now.
Symptoms of colon cancer tend to hide well and thrive when the cancer is at the final stage.
That’s why it is better to diagnose early, talk about it, and raise awareness about the impact of colon cancer.
Habits to Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Most cancers, like colon cancer, are preventable at an early age. Here are some of the habits that reduce the risk of cancer:
- Cut processed meats and foods from the diet.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Discourage smoking.
- Manage screen time.
- Have regular exercise.
- Eat vegetables, fruits, and whole grains more.
Being Young is not a license for Recklessness
Colon cancer is a major concern among people under 50, just because of its rising trend.
This issue needs proper conversation and a lifestyle check.
One thing to learn about this colon cancer trend is that being young and able is not a license for you not to take care of your health.
When you have it, take the early symptoms seriously before it is too late to overcome.