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Colon Cancer: 8 Warning Signs to Never Ignore
What: Eight warning signs of colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) as outlined by Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist.
Where: Details shared via a September 1st instagram post by Dr. Sethi, and reported by the Hindustan Times.
When: September 2023 (post date September 1st).
Why it Matters: Colorectal cancer often develops silently, meaning symptoms are easily overlooked. Early detection substantially improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
What’s Next: If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor promptly. Regular screenings are crucial, especially as diagnoses are rising in younger adults.
8 Warning Signs:
- Change in Bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of stool.
- Rectal Bleeding: Any blood in stool, even small amounts.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Cramps, gas, or pain.
- Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation: The sensation that you still need to have a bowel movement after going.
- Weakness or Fatigue: feeling unusually tired.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: Low red blood cell count, frequently enough detected during routine bloodwork.
- Changes in Stool Color: dark or tarry stools.
Colorectal Cancer Statistics (US – 2024 Estimates)
| Statistic | Estimate |
|---|---|
| New Cases | 153,020 |
| Deaths | 58,020 |
| Average Age at Diagnosis | 68 years |
| Lifetime Risk of Developing | ~4.5% |
Source: American cancer Society
