Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon). It typically affects people over the age of 50, but recent studies have shown that it’s becoming more prevalent among young adults.

This trend has surprised many experts, who previously thought that colon cancer was a disease that only affected older adults.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the colon. It typically starts as a small noncancerous growth called a polyp, which can develop into cancerous cells over time.

The exact cause of colon cancer is not known, but it’s thought to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

: Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is so important. However, some common symptoms that may develop as the cancer progresses include:.

Rectal bleeding
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue

Why is Colon Cancer Increasing in Young Adults?

While the exact cause of the increase in colon cancer among young adults isn’t known, experts believe that several factors may be contributing to the trend. These include:.

Rise in obesity rates
Unhealthy diet (high in red meat, fried foods and processed foods)
Lack of physical activity
Increase in alcohol consumption
Smoking
Exposure to environmental toxins
Poor healthcare access
Delayed diagnosis due to misconceptions about the disease.

How is Colon Cancer Treated?

The treatment options for colon cancer depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Standard treatments include:.

Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy which uses drugs to target specific genes or proteins that fuel cancer growth

: Prevention of Colon Cancer

Prevention is key when it comes to colon cancer. Some ways to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer include:.

Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while minimizing red meat and processed foods.
Maintaining a healthy weight
Exercising regularly
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Undergoing regular screening tests which include colonoscopies are important especially for people with a family history or other risk factors

: Conclusion

The rise of colon cancer among young adults is a surprising and concerning trend. More research is needed to better understand the causes, but it’s clear that lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and smoking can contribute to it.

Early detection and prevention through healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening can help reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.