For most healthy twentysomethings, cancer doesn't seem like a serious threat. After all, the median age for cancer diagnosis is 66.
But last year, a sobering new study revealed colorectal cancer (colon cancer and rectal cancer) rates had been rising among adults in their 20s and 30s. At first, researchers chalked it up to enhanced screenings leading to early diagnosis, but later realised more young people were dying from the disease, which is the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths in Australia.
Experts aren't sure what combination of underlying environmental, genetic and lifestyle factors are responsible for the rise colorectal cancer cases among younger people, says gastrointestinal specialist Dr Scott Strong. But doctors have some hunches.
"It's not surprising that the rise in colorectal cancer parallels the current obesity epidemic," says colorectal surgeon Dr David Liska. "Many of the behaviours leading to weight gain, such as unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles, have also been shown to increase the risk for colorectal cancer."
There is a silver lining: Colorectal cancer is largely preventable by maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. A fibre-rich diet with a variety of fruits, veggies and whole grains is key, says oncologist Dr Jeffrey Clark. Research shows limiting red meat and processed meat intake also helps, as well as not smoking and keeping drinking to a minimum.
Plus, the colon cancer survival rate is about 92% if caught in the early stages. "Cancer can be prevented during screening colonoscopies where precancerous polyps can be removed before they have a chance to progress to cancer," says colorectal surgeon Dr David Liska.
Avoid becoming a statistic and watch out for these early warning signs.
Anemia
Anemia means you have low red blood cell count. Colon cancer tumours deplete your red blood cell supply. "Rapidly growing tumours outgrow your blood supply, often creating ulcers that seep blood periodically," says Dr Kisiel. This is why you will often see blood in your stool. Anemia will also cause weakness and fatigue.
Rectal bleeding
You may notice red blood in your stool or simply on the toilet paper after wiping. Or your stool may be dark, caused by blood that has been digested in your GI tract. "Rectal bleeding can be caused by the act of passing stool, or without stool or not," says Dr Kisiel. However, rectal bleeding could also be caused by haemorrhoids or anal fissures. Either way, best to call your doctor if you notice blood in your toilet.
Involuntary weight loss
"Tumours may cause you to lose appetite, but they also alter your metabolism," says Dr Kisiel. Doctors aren't sure exactly why tumours alter metabolism chemicals in your body, but they suspect that your body's metabolism resources are often diverted to fight the tumour.
Difficulty going number-two
"Tumours often cause blockages that will make it harder for you to pass [stool]," says Dr Kisiel. They also will alter the shape of your stool, often making them thinner and pencil-shaped. You also may experience diarrhoea. Talk to your doctor if you notice these changes for longer than 4 weeks.
Abdominal cramping, pain or gas
If you're noticing more stomach pains, especially when going to the bathroom, it could be a sign of colon cancer.
You also may experience more gas. "Significantly increased gas that lasts several weeks or recurs over time," says Dr Clark.
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