The Surprising Rise of Colon Cancer in Young Adults: What You Need to Know from a San Jose Specialist

While colon cancer has traditionally been considered a disease affecting older adults, recent studies have shown a concerning trend: early-onset colon cancer is on the rise among people under the age of 50. This shift is prompting a re-evaluation of screening guidelines and highlights the importance of awareness, especially for younger individuals. As a leading gastroenterologist and hepatologist in San Jose, Dr. Huy Ngoc Trinh, MD, wants to help you understand this trend and know the crucial steps you can take to protect your health.

The exact reasons behind this increase aren’t fully understood, but many factors may contribute, including changes in diet, lifestyle, and a more sedentary way of life. This makes it more important than ever to be proactive about your digestive health, regardless of your age.

Here are the key symptoms that should never be ignored. If you or a loved one experience any of these, it’s vital to talk to a specialist like Dr. Trinh right away at his San Jose practice.

• Persistent Changes in Bowel Habits: This includes diarrhea or constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, that lasts for more than a few days. These changes could be subtle, but if they persist, they warrant a professional evaluation.
• Rectal Bleeding or Blood in Stool: Bright red or dark red blood in your stool is a classic warning sign and should always be investigated. Don’t assume it’s just hemorrhoids; an accurate diagnosis is critical.
• Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: This can include cramps, gas, or pain that doesn’t go away. This discomfort might feel like a minor annoyance at first, but if it becomes chronic, it’s time to seek expert help.
• A Feeling that Your Bowel Isn’t Empty: A constant sensation that you need to have a bowel movement, even after you’ve just gone, can be a sign of an underlying issue in your colon.
• Unexplained Weakness or Fatigue: This can be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia, which is often caused by bleeding in the colon that you may not even notice.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying can be a symptom of many health issues, including colon cancer.

Colon cancer, when caught early, is highly treatable. Regular screening is a cornerstone of prevention, and while the recommended age is now 45, individuals with symptoms or a family history may need to start earlier. Don’t let your age be a barrier to seeking care. If you have concerns, a consultation with Dr. Trinh in San Jose can provide clarity and peace of mind.