Colorectal cancer rates among young people are increasing, and doctors urge everyone to stay alert about the disease. While symptoms like blood in stool and abdominal pain are more common, experts say that pencil-thin poop is a surprising warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored.
According to Dr. Michael Cecchini, a co-director of the colorectal program at Yale Cancer Center, narrow stools can be a red flag for colon cancer. When tumors are present near the end of the colon or line the entire inside, they can narrow the stool and make it pencil-thin in size.
Dr. Jeffrey Dueker, a gastroenterologist at UPMC, emphasizes that any noticeable change in bowel habits could be a potential red flag. However, he stressed that thin stools don’t always mean colon cancer, but rather may require further investigation with a colonoscopy.
If you notice symptoms like pencil-thin poop, blood in stool, chronic abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, tell your doctor immediately. Early detection and screening can help catch colon cancer at an earlier stage, when it’s more treatable and curable.
Getting a colonoscopy or other colorectal cancer screenings is the best way to lower risk and detect the disease early. Screening typically starts at age 45, but certain individuals may be eligible for earlier screenings due to family history, genetic syndromes, or previous medical conditions.
Remember to stay informed about your medical history and any potential issues you might experience. While it’s essential to take symptoms seriously, doctors assure that not all of them mean colon cancer. Early detection is key to managing the disease effectively.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/one-unexpected-sign-colon-cancer-003102152.html