As the rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses increases among young people, understanding its signs is crucial. One less common, but significant, symptom is pencil-thin stools.
Increasing Rates of Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults
Since the 1990s, colorectal cancer rates have risen among individuals under 50. According to Dr. Michael Cecchini, a co-director of the colorectal program at the Center for Gastrointestinal Cancers and a medical oncologist at Yale Cancer Center, the exact cause remains unknown. Experts suspect lifestyle and environmental factors play a role.
Recognizing Pencil-Thin Stools as a Sign of Colon Cancer
A symptom gaining attention on social media is pencil-thin stools. One TikTok user shared her experience, noting thinner-than-normal stools along with unexplained weight loss and diarrhea. Initially, she thought she had irritable bowel syndrome, but she was later diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.
What Experts Say About Thin Stools and Colon Cancer
Narrow stools can be a red flag, particularly if they are a new and persistent change. According to Dr. Cecchini, this symptom can occur if tumors near the end of the colon or throughout the colon narrow the passage for stool. Healthy stool should be long and sausage-shaped, coming out in one piece or several smaller pieces.
Dr. Jeffrey Dueker, a gastroenterologist at UPMC and an associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, emphasizes that any noticeable change in bowel habits could be a potential red flag. This includes changes in stool shape or consistency and alterations in the frequency of bowel movements.
Common and Uncommon Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
While pencil-thin stools are less common, they are highly concerning when present. More common symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unintentional weight loss. Some cases may have no symptoms at all.
When to See a Doctor for Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
It’s crucial not to ignore symptoms like blood in your stool, chronic abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, or unexplained weight loss. Dr. Cecchini advises consulting a doctor if you notice any of these signs. Screening methods like colonoscopy or stool-based tests are the best ways to lower your risk or catch cancer early. For most people, screenings start at 45, but those with symptoms or certain risk factors may need to start earlier.
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors and the Importance of Early Screening
Individuals with a first-degree relative diagnosed with colon cancer, particularly before age 50, are at higher risk and should discuss early screening with their doctor. Those with inflammatory bowel disease, a history of radiation treatment to the pelvic or abdominal area, certain genetic syndromes, or a personal history of colon cancer should also consider early screening.
Conclusion: Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer Saves Lives
Keeping your doctor informed about your medical history and any symptoms is essential. While these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have colon cancer, they could indicate the need for a colonoscopy to determine the cause. Early detection is key to managing and potentially curing colorectal cancer. Dr. Cecchini emphasizes the importance of catching cancer early to improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of a cure.
This article is based on information originally reported by Huffington Post.
