Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, remains one of the most common cancers in the United States. Excluding skin cancers, it ranks third in prevalence.
In 2023 alone, an estimated 153,020 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC), and about 52,550 lost their lives to the disease. Alarmingly, more than 19,000 of those cases were in individuals under the age of 50, proving that colon cancer is not just an “older person’s disease.”
One of the greatest challenges with colon cancer is how easily its symptoms are overlooked. Many of its early warning signs can mimic everyday health issues, causing people to dismiss them until the disease has progressed.
Recognizing these subtle indicators could be life-saving. Here are five unusual signs of colon cancer people often ignore for years.
1. Persistent Abdominal Cramps
Stomach cramps are usually brushed off as indigestion, food poisoning, or stress. But when abdominal pain is severe, persistent, and accompanied by other changes in digestion, it may signal something more serious.
Colon tumors can irritate the lining of the intestine, causing sharp or ongoing cramps. While not every stomach ache is cancer, recurring pain that does not improve warrants medical attention.
2. Unexplained Fatigue
Feeling tired after a long day is normal. However, extreme fatigue that lingers even after adequate rest and a healthy diet can indicate an underlying issue.
Cancer cells drain the body’s energy, and colon cancer can also cause internal bleeding, leading to anemia and exhaustion. If fatigue becomes a constant presence in your life, it should not be ignored.
3. Sudden Weight Loss
One of the most overlooked red flags of cancer is unexplained weight loss. If you lose more than 5% of your body weight within six months without trying—such as dropping 7–8 pounds for someone who weighs 150 pounds—it could be a warning sign.
In colon cancer, tumors not only consume a large amount of energy but can also block the digestive tract, interfering with nutrient absorption and bowel function.
4. Irregular Bowel Movements
Changes in bowel habits are among the clearest indicators of colon cancer.
Tumors or precancerous polyps can disrupt normal bowel function, leading to diarrhea, constipation, or thin, pencil-like stools. Many people dismiss these changes as diet-related or temporary. But if irregularities persist for weeks, it is crucial to get them checked out.
5. Blood in Stool
The presence of blood is often the most alarming sign, yet some people ignore it due to embarrassment or the assumption that it’s from hemorrhoids.
Blood may appear bright red, dark, or even invisible to the naked eye. Consistent rectal bleeding or reddish water in the toilet should always be taken seriously, as it may point to colon or rectal cancer.
Lowering Your Risk
The good news is that lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with reduced consumption of red and processed meats, is strongly recommended.
Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake are also powerful preventive steps.
The bottom line: Colon cancer often whispers before it screams. Paying attention to subtle changes in your body—and acting quickly—can mean the difference between early treatment and late-stage diagnosis. If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor and take charge of your health.