Yes, you have heard recently that younger adults are getting colon cancer. The numbers are rising at a rapid rate, like 51% since 1994. You may also know that the American Cancer Society now recommends screenings should start at age 45, even for those with average risk. In addition, not only are more younger people in their thirties and forties being diagnosed, but more are dying. If this is not enough to encourage you to schedule your screening, here are additional signs you may need to schedule a colonoscopy.
Need More Incentives?
With all the new information about the growth of colon cancer in younger adults, you may want to consider the fact that the cancer found in younger people is more aggressive. Included in this “double whammy” is that cancer in younger adults has a higher mortality rate because it takes longer to be diagnosed due to unrecognized symptoms even by physicians.
Many times colon cancer does not have symptoms until it has progressed or spread. So all the more important to be screened before you have symptoms.
If you are under the age of 45, please pay special attention to these revelations and the upcoming signs that you may need to schedule a colonoscopy, so you don’t end up as one of the statistics.
Changes In Bowel Habits
If you are having trouble with diarrhea, constipation, or changes to the look of your stools, pay close attention. If your stools are more narrow than normal (ribbon like), or the other symptoms last longer than a few days, it may be time to see Digestive Health Services and schedule a colonoscopy.
No Relief After A Bowel Movement
If you feel like you still have “to go” even after having a bowel movement, this should be cause for concern.
Rectal Bleeding
Most of us would be concerned if we were bleeding, but if the blood is bright red, schedule an appointment with your physician immediately. Of course it could be caused by other conditions but never wait if you see blood. Also note any blood in the stool itself.
Weakness And Fatigue
Feeling weak and fatigued can be attributed to many other issues, but it can also be a sign of colon cancer, especially if it is combined with unexplained weight loss.
Abdominal Pain And Cramping
Consistent abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping should be checked out by Digestive Health Services.
Many of the above signs can be attributed to other conditions like ulcers, IBS, hemorrhoids, or an infection, but don’t wait to seek medical care.
Screening Is Key
Screening is key to the prevention of colon cancer, and treatment is more likely to succeed if colorectal cancer is caught in its earliest stages.
It is better if you have NO signs of colon cancer and yet schedule a colonoscopy or another type of screening.
If you are a young adult, don’t wait for symptoms. Contact Digestive Health Services at (630) 434-9312 to schedule your colonoscopy.
