DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Franjo Vladic, MD

Q: Colon Cancer: A Growing Problem among Younger Adults

A: Colon cancer is afflicting younger individuals with increasing frequency. According to recent statistics, the rate of early onset colon cancer has increased by 11 percent between 2004 and 2011, and this concerning trend is expected to continue. Research shows that colon cancer in younger individuals is more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages and require more aggressive treatment. Why is this the case? Both patients and physicians may not address their symptoms as seriously or as quickly as they would if the patients were older. This is perfectly understandable. A competent doctor who is seeing a 40-year-old patient with stomach cramps is not likely to consider colon cancer as an explanation. By the time the correct diagnosis is made, much time may have passed. Rectal bleeding should never be ignored or assumed to be coming from hemorrhoids, even in younger people. Our medical practice has seen the tragic outcome of this scenario. Be attune to your body. Share your symptoms, even if you regard them as minor, with your doctor. Then, decide together if any action is warranted. Has your bowel changed? Have you lost a few pounds unexpectedly? And, keep in mind that colon cancer screening does not begin until age 50. Experts have advised that starting earlier is too much cost and effort to capture too few patients. So, younger folks need to be especially mindful of their bodies. If you sense something is amiss, go with your gut. For your convenience, you may request an appointment on our website www.cdhohio.com.

Center for Digestive Health 34940 Ridge Rd. #B Willoughby, OH 44094 (440) 953-1899 www.cdhwilloughby.com