According to the American Cancer Society, when colorectal cancer is found early, before it has spread, the 5-year relative survival rate is about 91%. That’s why recognizing symptoms and getting screened can make all the difference.
Yet too many people still dismiss the warning signs, especially if they’re under 50.
The Symptom Too Many People Overlook
One of the most important—and often ignored—warning signs is unexplained weight loss.
If you’re losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, it’s your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. While weight loss doesn’t automatically mean cancer, it should never be ignored, regardless of if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
Other warning signs include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- Ongoing abdominal pain, cramping or bloating
- Narrow stools that persist over time
Many of these symptoms can have non-cancer causes, but only a healthcare provider can determine why they’re happening.
Colorectal Cancer Isn’t Just an Older Person’s Disease
Boseman was only 43 years old when he died.
His story shattered the misconception that colorectal cancer only affects seniors. While most cases still occur in older adults, diagnoses among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s have been increasing significantly.
One reason cancers are often discovered later in younger adults is that symptoms are dismissed as hemorrhoids, stress, irritable bowel syndrome or other less serious conditions.
Early Detection Saves Lives
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45 for adults at average risk.
For those with a family history or certain medical conditions, screening may need to begin even earlier.
The goal isn’t simply to detect cancer. Colonoscopies can identify and remove precancerous polyps before they ever become active cancer pulps.
A Few Minutes That Could Change Your Future
Learning the common warning signs of colorectal cancer takes only a few minutes.
Ignoring them could cost a lifetime.
Know the symptoms. Know your family history. Talk with your healthcare provider if something doesn’t feel right. And don’t assume you’re too young to be at risk.
At SpottingCancer.org, we believe awareness leads to action—and action leads to earlier diagnoses, better treatment options and more lives saved. Five years after Chadwick Boseman’s passing, the most meaningful way to honor his legacy is by making sure more people recognize the signs and seek care before it’s too late.
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