Colon cancer has traditionally affected older people, but new figures show that more young adults are now developing the disease, according to Express.
A report published in the medical journal The Lancet shows that the number of younger patients has risen rapidly.
In 2019, 20 percent of all cases were diagnosed in people under the age of 55. That is roughly double the number recorded in 1995.
Symptoms can be difficult to detect
Doctors believe many people miss the early warning signs. According to Express, the NHS lists stomach pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits as possible symptoms.
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Doctor Sermed Mezher told Express that early detection is crucial because the chances of survival are significantly higher when the disease is found at an early stage.
The NHS also recommends contacting a doctor if symptoms last for more than three weeks.
Three warning signs in the bathroom
Sermed Mezher especially warns about three symptoms that may become noticeable during visits to the bathroom.
These include blood in the stool, changes in toilet habits, and a feeling that the bowel is not fully emptied.
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He also encourages people to take part in colon cancer screening programs. According to him, several patients later regretted not getting checked earlier.
Sources: Daily Express, The Lancet, and NHS.
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