A 34-year-old man with colon cancer shares his story of ignoring two key warning signs – blood on the toilet paper and abdominal pain – in hopes of helping others avoid a similar fate. Joe Faratzis first began experiencing problems in 2019, including a dull ache in the lower right abdomen that he initially dismissed.
Six months later, he started noticing blood on the toilet paper, but still didn’t seek medical attention due to embarrassment. After another six months, his bleeding worsened, and he was forced to undergo a colonoscopy, where he received a shocking cancer diagnosis.
Mr. Faratzis’ story comes as bowel and other cancers in younger patients have surged by 50% over the past three decades, with diagnoses rising in this age group while those in older people have either declined or remained stable.
Experts point to ultra-processed foods as a major cause of the surge in young colon cancer cases. These ready-made foods, often containing artificial ingredients, may be as dangerous as tobacco and should come with health warnings.
Symptoms of colon cancer include changes in bowel habits, blood in stool or toilet, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, bloating, and changes in appetite. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to visit your GP and follow three key rules: if you have chronic symptoms, new symptoms, a combination of three or more symptoms, or a change in symptoms.
By listening to their bodies and seeking medical attention early, people can increase their chances of survival. Mr. Faratzis’ story serves as a warning to others, emphasizing the importance of taking care of one’s health and not ignoring any unusual symptoms.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14173273/34-colon-cancer-ignoring-two-key-warning-signs.html