When compared to older people, younger people do not have the same level of concern for their health. Many members of Generation Z and the Millenial generation do, in fact, place a high priority on their physical and mental health. On the other hand, they are still young, and the likelihood of developing life-altering illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, chronic pain, and heart disease grows with decreasing age. According to study, however, members of Generation Z and Millennials are not as protected as was previously believed. Since the 1990s, the United States has seen a twofold increase in the number of people diagnosed with colon cancer. In particular, among the population of those aged 20 to 49.
The killer
who goes unnoticedCancer of the colon is also referred to as colorectal cancer, bowel cancer, and rectal cancer, depending on the location where the tumor’s origin is located. As a result of the fact that there may be very few or even no warning symptoms, it is also known as the silent killer. To add insult to injury, by the time the symptoms manifest themselves, the cancer has already advanced.
Cancer of the colon in young people
Colorectal cancer is the second largest cause of mortality due to cancer, according to the Colon Cancer Coalition (CCC), and it is the fourth most commonly diagnosed form of cancer overall. In addition, thirty percent of its diagnoses are for those who are younger than fifty-five years old. As a result, it has quickly become the top cause of mortality from cancer among men and the second highest cause of death among women under the age of 50.
People who were born after the year 1990 have a risk of having colon cancer that is two times higher than those who were born in 1950, and they have a risk of acquiring rectal cancer that is four times higher than those who were born in 1950. Each year, “there will be approximately 18,000 cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in people under the age of 50,” according to the researchers. That is the same as 49 new cases being reported every single day.
In what ways is the incidence of colon cancer increasing?
In order to determine the reasons for the increasing prevalence of colon cancer among young individuals, a study conducted in Europe and published in the journal Annals of Oncology looked into the matter. Carlo La Vecchia, MD, who is a professor of medical statistics and epidemiology at the University of Milan, was the one who directed the research, which was conducted.
“Overweight, obesity, and related health conditions, such as high blood sugar levels and diabetes, are key factors that contribute to the rise in bowel cancer rates among young people,” stated La Vecchia in a press statement. “These factors are also contributing to the current epidemic of bowel cancer.” Additionally, he reported an increase in the use of bigger amounts of alcohol, in addition to a decrease in physical activity.
Record of the family
The presence of a family history of colon cancer is the most significant risk factor that is currently recognised. When compared to individuals who do not have a family history of the condition, those who have immediate family members who are affected by it have a risk that is twice or even three times higher of having the condition themselves. It is for this reason that specialists advise individuals who have a family history to start screening sooner than the majority of people, particularly if the affected relative was diagnosed at a younger age.
Rates of survival
According to the Commission on Cancer (CCC), the relative survival rate for stage 1 and stage 2 colon cancer is ninety percent after five years. Stage 3 accounts for 71% of the total, while stage 4 accounts for 14%. Even more unfortunate is the fact that younger people are more likely to acquire a diagnosis of late-stage cancer. This is due to the fact that they are too young to be suggested for routine tests.
It is important to keep in mind that indications of this condition are not always present. Even those who do encounter symptoms are likely to endure pain for a considerable amount of time before they are provided with an accurate diagnosis. A delayed treatment may result from an incorrect diagnosis. Bear in mind that the development of colon cancer normally takes place over the course of ten years.
Signs and symptoms
A number of factors, including the origin of the growth, might influence the symptoms that are associated with cancer. It is important for individuals to get medical assistance if they are suffering any of the following symptoms:
When you have a bowel movement, you may have rectal bleeding, bloody stool, or blood in the toilet.
Constipation or diarrhoea that does not go away
Feelings of fatigue or low energy
Unexpected reduction in body mass
“Full” feeling that occurs too early in the meal
Stools that are not typical, such as those with a dark colour or those that are ribbon-thin
Be an advocate for oneself.
Vikram Reddy, MD, PHD, a colorectal surgeon, advised Yale Medicine that “if anyone has any change in their bowel habits, if they have any bleeding—even if they think it’s a haemorrhoid, and it doesn’t go away—just get a colonoscopy.” Reddy made this statement in response to a question from Yale Medicine. If you have the impression that your primary care physician is not taking your issues seriously, you should not be reluctant to seek a second opinion.
The prevention of colon cancer
In general, screening begins at the age of 45 for individuals who do not have any family history. Some tests can be performed in the comfort of one’s own home. Quitting smoking, reducing the amount of processed and red meat in one’s diet, engaging in regular physical activity, consuming a nutritious diet that is high in fibre, and keeping a healthy weight are all ways in which an individual can minimise their overall risk.
Assist your body in thriving.
meals that are high in fibre can be substituted for meals that are highly processed, which is one approach to enhance one’s diet. According to Tim Spector, a British epidemiologist, doctor, and scientific co-founder of the health firm ZOE, “When it comes to protecting against colorectal cancer, it’s not just about avoiding the bad stuff—it’s also about doubling down on what actively helps your body thrive.” Spector is a co-founder of ZOE, a health company.
“Fibre does far more than just help with digestion; it regulates bowel movements and reduces the amount of time harmful substances are in contact with the colon,” Spector stated in an interview with Newsweek. “This is extremely important because anything that reduces the likelihood of toxins accumulating in the gut is going to assist in lowering the risk of developing cancer. Consider the fibre in your diet to be a kind of cleaning crew for your gut.
