With more young people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, concerns about the disease are growing. Rates of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50 have been increasing since the 1990s, according to Dr. Michael Cecchini, co-director of the colorectal program at the Center for Gastrointestinal Cancers and a medical oncologist at Yale Cancer Center.
Why Are Rates Increasing?
The exact cause remains unknown. Experts believe lifestyle and environmental factors may play a role, but further research is needed. In the meantime, staying alert about colorectal cancer is crucial, even for younger individuals.
Recognizing Warning Signs
One surprising symptom gaining attention on social media is pencil-thin poop. A TikTok user shared that she noticed her stools were thinner than normal, along with other red-flag symptoms like unexplained weight loss and diarrhea. Initially thinking she had irritable bowel syndrome, she delayed seeing a doctor. When she finally sought medical help, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.
What Experts Say About Narrow Stool
Dr. Cecchini explains that narrow stool can be a red flag. Tumors near the end of the colon or lining the entire inside can narrow the stool passage. Healthy stool is typically long and sausage-shaped, according to Medical News Today. Dr. Jeffrey Dueker, a gastroenterologist at UPMC and associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, emphasizes that persistent changes in stool shape or consistency are concerning. Any alteration in bowel habits—such as frequency or shape—could be a potential warning sign, though not always indicative of colon cancer.
Less Common but Concerning
Pencil-thin poop is one of the less common signs of colorectal cancer. When present, it is highly concerning, but more widespread symptoms include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unintentional weight loss. Some cases may have no symptoms at all.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice blood in your stool, chronic abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, or unexplained weight loss, do not ignore these symptoms. Dr. Cecchini warns that younger individuals often dismiss symptoms as hemorrhoids, but these can coexist with cancer. The best way to lower risk or catch cancer early is through screening, such as colonoscopy or stool-based tests. Most people should start screening at age 45, but those with symptoms or risk factors may qualify earlier.
Risk Factors for Early Screening
Dr. Dueker notes that individuals with a first-degree relative diagnosed with colon cancer before age 50 are at higher risk and should discuss earlier screening with their doctor. Other factors include inflammatory bowel disease, radiation treatment to the pelvic or abdominal area, certain genetic syndromes, or a personal history of colon cancer.
Stay Informed, Don't Panic
While symptoms should be taken seriously, they do not necessarily mean you have colon cancer. A colonoscopy can determine the cause, which may be a precancerous polyp or early-stage cancer. Detecting cancer early makes it more treatable and often curable. As Dr. Cecchini states, most people with colorectal cancer are cured each year.
