Colorectal Cancer Is Rising in Younger Adults. Here’s What To Watch For

Know the Signs: Colorectal cancer used to be considered an older person’s disease, but that’s no longer the case. It’s now the leading cause of cancer deaths in people under 50. One in five cases of colorectal cancer are in people under age 54. To help people become familiar with the symptoms, the American College of Surgeons created a resource guide and checklist of early signs of the disease. If you notice these signs, schedule an appointment with your physician — don’t wait. 

How to Do It: First, start screening to identify any polyps, which could become cancerous. Colonoscopies are the “gold standard” of screening, but even an at-home stool test is better than nothing. (It’s recommended people start getting colonoscopies at age 45.) One of the most common signs is seeing bright red blood in the toilet, in your stool, or on toilet paper. Other early signs include thin, pencil-like stool; ongoing cramping or abdominal pain; unusual fatigue or weakness; persistent bowel changes (either constipation or diarrhea); and unexplained weight loss. 

The Benefits: Paying attention to these symptoms and getting early screenings can improve treatment outcomes and potentially save your life, especially if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.