A doctor has issued a warning over five symptoms said to be a sign of serious illness that is rising rapidly amongst young people.
Scientists are currently investigating an alarming rise in bowel cancer in young adults, with concerning increases reported across the globe.
While such cancer remains more common in older adults, scientists fear colorectal cancer could be the leading cancer-related cause of death in young adults in the coming years.
So, what are the symptoms to look out for?
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Well, Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has detailed five bowel cancer symptoms that are often overlooked or mistaken for other illnesses.
Of course, displaying such symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you've got cancer, but it's always best to get checked to be on the safe side.
Changes in bowel habits
Dr Grant has explained changes in bowel habits can be mistaken for various conditions including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), issues relating to dietary habits, hormonal issues and even stress - but it could be something more sinister.
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The health expert said: "While alterations in bowel habits may indicate these conditions, they’re also massive indicators of bowel cancer. Anyone who experiences prolonged diarrhoea, constipation or often doesn’t feel relieved after going to the toilet should consider a GP visit to ensure it’s not a signifier of this harmful condition."
Blood in your stool
"Noticing blood in your stool can cause panic and while it can be a sign of hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it can also signify bowel cancer," Dr Grant said.
"Generally, anyone who notices blood in their stool or feels pain while going to the bathroom should get it checked out by a medical professional, who can advise further on potential causes or test for bowel cancer."
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The doctor concluded by saying it's 'absolutely worth getting it medically assessed' if you're displaying such symptom.
Bloating
Dr Grant said it can be 'extremely challenging' to identify the cause of bloating.
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The expert added: "It can be extra tough for women, as menstruation can often lead to bloating, masking potential cancer symptoms. Overall, bloating can be caused by indigestion, food intolerance, or IBS, but what many don’t know is that it’s also an indication of bowel cancer."
Prolonged fatigue
Tiredness can be contributed to a wide range of conditions, there's no doubt about that - so Dr Grant is on hand to lift the lid on the situation.
He said: "Bowel cancer can quickly cause anemia through internal bleeding, limiting the number of red blood cells and leading to fatigue."
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However, this isn’t always so obvious, as tiredness can stem from various factors - including poor sleep, mental health issues, or a diet lacking essential nutrients.
"Medical conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and diabetes can also cause tiredness, leading to many missing the early identification of bowel cancer, increasing their risk of death."
Unexplained weight loss
And finally, unexplained weight loss should be taken 'incredibly seriously', Dr Grant went on to explain.
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"It can infer a range of dangerous health conditions. This includes hyperthyroidism, diabetes, tuberculosis and, of course, bowel cancer," the medical expert continued.
"If anyone experiences rapid weight loss without amending diet, increasing exercise or adjusting lifestyle habits, it’s best to book a GP visit for a more accurate diagnosis."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.
Callum Jones