Breast cancer is on the rise in adults under the age of 50, but new research has identified four key symptoms linked to early onset. New research has identified key symptoms linked to an increased risk of early colorectal cancer in young people. Symptoms to watch out for are abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea and iron deficiency anemia.
Risk factors for colon cancer may include a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a personal or family history of colorectal polyps, or a genetic predisposition. A person’s health and eating habits or lifestyle can also play a role. Young adults can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular colon screening tests, and considering genetic testing. In recent years, colorectal cancer has nearly doubled among young adults. Researchers are currently investigating the reasons for the increased risk.
According to a recent study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, four signs and symptoms have been associated with an increased risk of early colorectal cancer in young people. We speak of early onset when cancer is diagnosed before the age of 50.
Skin cancer is on the rise in young adults
The incidence of colon and rectal cancer in people under the age of 55 has nearly doubled in the past 20 years, from 11% to 20%. Risk factors associated with an increased incidence of throat cancer in young people include:
family history of colon and rectal cancer in a first-degree relative—ie, parent, child, or sibling) without an identifiable genetic mutation
high cholesterol or triglycerides
increased alcohol consumption
Cancer is also more common in men than in women.
A study of colorectal cancer in young adults
They found four key signs and symptoms in subjects under the age of 50, between three months and two years before their diagnosis:
abdominal pain
anorectal bleeding (dark or bright red blood in the toilet bowl, on the toilet paper, or in the stool)
diarrhea
iron deficiency anemia (with or without chronic fatigue).
The researchers also found that having any of these symptoms nearly doubled the risk of developing colon cancer. Two symptoms increase the risk by more than 3.5 times and three or more increase the risk by more than 6.5 times.
Symptoms (subjective experiences) are not risk factors for colon cancer. Symptoms (subjective experiences) and signs (objective findings) can indicate the presence of polyps or cancer of the colon or rectum, and should not be ignored if they occur and persist. Other symptoms of early stage colon cancer may include a significant change in bowel habits (ie difficulty with bowel movements or small or narrow stools) or unexplained weight loss.
Further research in young people is also needed
Although the study results provide encouraging information about early-onset breast cancer, more research is needed in young adults to support these findings. we are witnessing. More research is needed to better understand the complex interplay of factors that contribute to this culture.
Other risks associated with colon cancer
A person’s health, diet or lifestyle can play a role in the risk of developing colon or rectal cancer. These risk factors may include:
obesity
diabetes and insulin resistance
Excessive consumption of processed foods and red meat (more than twice a week)
drinking alcohol (more than one drink a day)
cigarette
Other risk factors for developing colorectal cancer may determine whether a person benefits from early detection. These factors are:
personal or family history of colorectal adenomatous polyps, cancer, or polyposis syndromes (familial adenomatous polyposis)
A history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the colon, such as chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease (longer duration increases the risk)
history of abdominal or pelvic therapy
history of cystic fibrosis
acromegaly (excess pituitary growth hormone)
history of kidney transplantation (on high-dose immunosuppressive therapy)
genetic mutation increasing risk (eg Lynch syndrome).
Reduce the risk of cancer
Teens and older adults who are concerned about developing colon cancer can take steps to reduce their risk.
Colon cancer screening
Colon cancer screening from age 45 is important for early detection and prevention. Polyps containing cancer cells can remain in the colon wall not only for months, but also for years. Some people with colorectal cancer do not always have symptoms, or their symptoms may resemble other gastrointestinal problems. This is one of the many reasons people should know their family medical history and let their doctor know if anything is wrong. If symptoms may be due to colorectal cancer, there are screening tests that can find the cause
In high-risk people, screening for colon cancer includes a colonoscopy or CT colonography (a virtual hand exam done using a CT scan). The average risk population may also benefit from a colonoscopy or CT colonoscopy, or start with a stool-based screening test, which may lead to a recommendation for a colonoscopy. Also, people with a family history of colorectal cancer may choose to be screened ten years before the age at which a family member’s cancer is diagnosed.
Eating healthy and exercising
In addition to following recommended screening guidelines, experts recommend:
to follow a balanced diet
to exercise regularly
maintain a healthy weight
limit alcohol consumption
avoid smoking
Most people with colorectal cancer do not have inherited conditions that indicate a higher risk. For most people, making healthy lifestyle choices and getting screened as recommended by their doctor are the most important things they can do to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer.
