For years it was considered a disease mainly associated with older people. However, that reality is changing. Colorectal cancer is increasing among adults under age 50 and is already the leading cause of cancer death in that age group in the United States, according to the American College of Surgeons (ACS).

The problem is that many patients are diagnosed late because the first symptoms are often confused with common conditions, such as hemorrhoids, constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.

For this reason, specialists insist that any persistent change in intestinal function deserves a medical evaluation, even in young people.

Symptoms that should not be ignored

The American College of Surgeons recently developed a guide to help recognize the most common warning signs of colorectal cancer. Among them stand out:

Experts clarify that these symptoms do not necessarily mean that cancer exists. Many times they have benign causes. However, when they appear persistently or represent a change with respect to the normal functioning of the body, they should be evaluated by a professional.

Why is the increase in young people so worrying?

Overall rates of colorectal cancer have decreased thanks to screening programs, but that trend is not seen among those under 50 years of age.

Researchers are still studying the reasons. Among the hypotheses are changes in diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, alterations in the intestinal microbiome and environmental factors. Family history and inflammatory bowel diseases also play a role, although many young patients do not have any of these known risk factors.

One of the biggest challenges is that, due to age, both patients and doctors may initially attribute symptoms to less serious problems, delaying studies that would allow cancer to be detected in its initial stages.

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When should the controls start?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45. Those with a family history of inflammatory bowel diseases or inherited syndromes may need to start earlier, depending on medical indication.

Colonoscopy remains the most complete test because it allows polyps to be detected and removed before they turn into cancer. Stool testing is also available, and the American Cancer Society recently added new screening options, including some blood tests for select patients, although colonoscopy remains the gold standard.

Early detection makes a difference

Specialists agree on one message: do not wait for the symptoms to disappear on their own.

The repeated presence of blood in the stool, persistent changes in the intestine or unexplained fatigue warrant a medical consultation, regardless of age. Detected in early stages, colorectal cancer has a much better chance of successful treatment.

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