Colon Cancer Rates Rising Sharply in โคyoung Adults, Experts Warn
Colon cancer,โข or colorectal cancer, is increasingly affecting younger populations, including Genโค Z andโ millennials, โaccording to recent research. A study published in the British Journal ofโ Surgery found individuals born in 1990 have twice the risk of developing colon cancer comparedโข to those born in 1950.
Experts attributeโข this trend to a โคcombination of lifestyleโข factors and genetics. Dr. Sulpiana, M.Biomed, a lecturer at IPB University Faculty of Medicine, stated, “Lack of physical โactivity, consumption of foodsโ high in fat, low in fiber, and โขan unbalanced diet are the main risk factors that can trigger colorectal cancer at a young age.” While family history remains a risk factor, she added that unhealthy lifestyles are now the biggest driver of the disease, even in those without a genetic predisposition.
Early detection is crucial, as colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms initially. Five key symptoms toโค be aware of include:
- Changes in bowel movements – differing frequency, texture, or shape.
- Blood in the stool – either fresh or appearing black in color.
- Persistent stomach pain or cramps without a clear cause.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Excessive fatigue despite adequate rest.
Dr. Sulpiana recommends immediate medicalโฃ evaluation, including colonoscopy screening, for anyone โฃexperiencing these โsymptoms, particularly those with aโ family history โof colorectal cancerโข or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Preventative measures include increasing fiber intake through โฃvegetables, fruits, and whole grains; reducing โconsumption of red meat โand processed foods; engaging โฃin regular exercise; and maintaining a balanced diet. โ”Gut health really depends on our lifestyle. Small changes such asโข increasing fiber โand moving regularly can significantly reduce the โrisk of colorectal cancer,” Dr. Sulpiana emphasized.