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Key symptoms -

New research links abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and iron deficiency anemia to early-onset colorectal cancer risk.

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Understanding early-onset colorectal cancer -

This form of cancer occurs when individuals are diagnosed before the age of 50, contrary to common assumptions about age risk.

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Risk factors -

Factors like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), family history of colorectal polyps, or genetic predisposition can increase cancer risk.

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Lifestyle's role -

Diet, exercise, and overall health habits also contribute to the likelihood of developing colon and rectal cancer.

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Rising rates in younger adults -

Colorectal cancer cases in adults under 55 have nearly doubled, rising from 11% to 20% in the last 20 years.

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Importance of recognizing symptoms early -

Symptoms like rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea, and chronic fatigue linked to anemia may precede diagnosis by months or years.

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Researchers highlight four key symptoms -

Abdominal pain, anorectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea, and iron deficiency anemia are critical early warning signs of colorectal cancer that should never be ignored.

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The impact of multiple symptoms -

Having one symptom nearly doubles risk, two symptoms increase it 3.5 times, and three or more boosts it by 6.5 times.

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Broader signs to monitor -

Changes in bowel habits, narrow stools, or unexplained weight loss may also signal early onset colon cancer.

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Disparities in colorectal cancer risk -

In the US, Black, Native American, and Alaskan Native populations face a disproportionately higher risk of colorectal cancer and mortality.

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Gender differences in risk -

Colorectal cancer is more frequently diagnosed in males compared to females, though reasons for this aren't fully understood.

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Family history's influence -

A family history of colon cancer, especially in first-degree relatives, significantly increases early onset cancer risk.

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The role of high cholesterol -

Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels are associated with an increased likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.

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Lifestyle risk factors -

Heavy alcohol use, smoking, and obesity also elevate the risk of colon and rectal cancers in younger adults.

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Processed foods -

Regularly consuming processed foods and red meat more than twice weekly is linked to an increased risk of early onset colorectal cancer.

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Environmental and obesity links -

While environmental factors and rising obesity rates are suspect, they don't fully explain the surge in early onset cases.

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The need for more research -

Scientists agree that further studies are critical to understand the complex factors driving higher cancer rates in younger populations.

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Genetic predispositions to cancer -

Lynch syndrome and other genetic mutations are linked to nearly one-third of colorectal cancer cases in younger adults.

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Screening for high-risk groups -

For high-risk individuals, screening may start 10 years before the age at which a close family member was diagnosed.

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Screening options -

Screening methods include colonoscopy, CT colonography, or stool tests that may lead to additional diagnostic procedures.

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Symptoms can be silent -

Colorectal cancer may progress silently for years, with symptoms resembling other gastrointestinal issues, delaying detection.

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Importance of early detection -

Routine screenings starting at age 45 are vital for preventing cancer or catching it early when treatment is most effective.

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Advances in genetic screening -

Simple blood tests can identify genetic mutations, helping those with family histories better understand their cancer risk.

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Healthy diet -

A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains helps lower the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.

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Benefits of regular exercise -

Engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, improve overall health, and significantly reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

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Avoiding smoking and alcohol -

Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are essential lifestyle changes to decrease cancer risk

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Understanding non-inherited risk -

Most people with colorectal cancer lack inherited genetic markers, making lifestyle changes and screenings vital.

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Expert recommendation -

Experts urge people to monitor symptoms, know their family history, and adopt a proactive approach to cancer prevention.

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Hope through awareness and research -

By recognizing early signs, embracing healthier habits, and advancing research, the burden of colorectal cancer can be reduced.

Sources: (National Geographic) (Medical News Today) 

See also: Rare cancers that challenge the medical profession

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