Why Is Colon Cancer Rising In Young Adults Under 50? All You Need To Know

Lately, scientists are pointing fingers to a certain type of food, increasing risk of colon cancer under 50. Beware of these subtle signs and symptoms of this aggressive type of cancer, as ignoring these can trigger severe health issues.

Colon cancer, medically known as Colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that occurs in the longest part of the largest intestine. It is one of the highest incidences after lung cancer and breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH).

In a very surprising turn of events, doctors have recently seen a disturbing trend of young adults, who are under 50, being diagnosed with colon cancer, traditionally viewed as an older adult disease.

But Why Is Colon Cancer Rising In Young Adults?

According to reports, scientists are pointing fingers towards the common dietary culprit, which is known as ultra-processed food - a contributing factor to obesity and a low-fibre diet.

Another factor contributing to the increased risk of colorectal cancer is reduced physical activity.

All the lifestyle choices pose a direct threat to harmful bacteria, gut inflammation, and DNA-damaging toxins.

A study, published by the British Journal of Surgery (BJS) in 2020, explains, "Despite age-standardized incidence rates remaining static in the UK, as well as in other nations with a high human development index3, there is increasing evidence that incidence rates are increasing in adults aged less than 50 years."

Signs And Symptoms Of Colon Cancer

If you're under 50 and crave only ultra-processed foods, then watch out for these signs of colon cancer outlined by the NIH:

• Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
• Change in bowel habits
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
• Stools that are narrower or have a different shape than usual
• General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps)
• Weight loss for no known reason
• Fatigue
• Vomiting

Beware of these subtle signs and symptoms of this aggressive type of cancer, as ignoring these can trigger severe health issues.

Treatment And Management Of Colon Cancer

After diagnosis, here are the treatment process for colon cancer:

• Surgery: This process involves removing diseased tissue and lymph nodes from the infected areas.
• Radiation: A therapy that involves a combination of surgery and high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Another treatment for killing colorectal cancer cells by using drugs and radiation therapy, or surgery.
• Targeted therapy: A method targets the proteins or genes that spread cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: A therapy to enhance the body's immune system to fight cancer.

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