With youth increasingly afflicted by colorectal cancer, doctors highlight often overlooked ‘silent’ symptoms that can herald early disease. Dr. Jack Ogden, a consultant gastroenterologist, emphasizes timely recognition of these subtle signs to catch cancer early.
Iron deficiency anemia may cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations; it frequently results from slow rectal bleeding from tumors.
Altered bowel movements—constipation, diarrhea, or narrow stools—can indicate tumor growth constricting the colon, warranting prompt medical assessment.
Unexpected weight loss from appetite suppression or nutrient malabsorption is another warning.
Persistent abdominal bloating or pain, especially feeling full rapidly after eating, could reflect tumor-related gastrointestinal changes.
Lastly, blood in stool, often hidden without tests, signals internal bleeding. Its presence demands thorough investigation.
Educating the public about these silent symptoms could improve early detection and survival rates for younger bowel cancer patients.
