Colon cancer rates have increased significantly among young adults under 50 in recent decades. A study found that 82% of colon cancer patients in this age group were misdiagnosed initially, while two women who had the disease in their 30s were told they had hemorrhoids or a parasite.
Brooks Bell and Sarah Beran, both treated for colon cancer at 38 and 34, respectively, are now working together to raise awareness about the importance of regular screening. Beran was misdiagnosed with a parasite after experiencing symptoms such as blood in her stools, while Bell’s doctor initially told her she had hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of colon cancer include abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. However, these symptoms often overlap with common digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome, making it challenging for doctors to diagnose younger patients.
Experts recommend that people under 45 consider getting a colonoscopy if they have more than one symptom of colon cancer, as it can help prevent the disease. A colonoscopy involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the rectum and colon to check for polyps. The procedure is often fast and painless, and can be considered a self-care wellness experience.
Bell and Beran’s efforts aim to rebrand colonoscopies in a positive light, emphasizing their empowering and hopeful benefits. As they highlight, regular screening can protect young adults from this major threat. With more people developing colon cancer, it’s essential to raise awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/colon-cancer-symptoms-young-people-misdiagnosed-hemorrhoids-women-worldclass-2025-6