Major metro cities of India, especially Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru, are witnessing an alarming increase in the cases of colon cancer. Health experts have warned that due to poor lifestyle, excessive consumption of processed food and physical inactivity, this disease is no longer limited to the elderly only. Now in the major hospitals of the city, symptoms of this cancer are being found in youth aged between 35 to 40 years, which are directly related to urban eating habits and stressful daily routine.

Increasing risk of colon cancer: increasing cases among youth and the truth about screening

Symptoms that can be difficult to ignore

The biggest challenge of colon cancer is that its initial symptoms look like normal stomach problems. Doctors advise that if the problem of persistent constipation or diarrhea persists, then do not consider it as a simple digestive disorder. The most important warning sign is blood in the stool. Apart from this, rapid weight loss without any reason and persistent cramps or pain in the stomach can be serious signs of this disease. Often patients ignore these symptoms until the situation goes out of control.

Misinformation and ground reality

There are many myths spread in cities regarding colon cancer, which become a hindrance in timely treatment. Analysis of local clinics and government health data revealed the following:

• Age illusion: It is wrong to think that this happens only to people above 60 years of age. Now even 30-40 year old professionals in IT hubs like Bengaluru and Hyderabad are vulnerable to it.
• Genes and Lifestyle: Just taking a healthy diet is not enough. If your History of cancer in the family If so, then the danger for you is double.
• Cancer without symptoms: A shocking data shows that almost Advanced stage in 70% cases Despite reaching this level, no obvious symptoms are visible.

Expert opinion and importance of screening

“The biggest enemy of colon cancer is delay. If we detect polyps in the early stages (1 or 2), then in 95% of the cases the patient can be completely cured. Instead of panicking about colonoscopy, it should be seen as a preventive checkup.”