Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 3: Blood in stool, sudden changes in bowel habits, or unexplained episodes of constipation and diarrhoea may seem like routine digestive issues — but doctors warn they could be early signs of colon cancer, which is increasingly affecting people in their 30s.

Florida-based gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab, known for his health content on digestion, liver and nutrition, highlighted four major symptoms young adults should not ignore. In a video posted on December 3, he urged people to seek timely medical attention if these warning signs appear.

Unexplained fatigue

Dr Salhab said persistent tiredness that makes a person sleep more than usual may be linked to anaemia caused by slow internal bleeding from colon cancer. “Colon cancers can bleed over time causing iron deficiency anemia, and a low blood level can cause worsening fatigue,” he explained.

Night sweats

Night sweats, he said, are another common symptom triggered by inflammatory proteins released by cancer cells. “These proteins can result in inappropriate fevers and night sweats,” he noted.

Change in bowel habits

A shift in bowel habits — either increased constipation or bouts of uncontrollable diarrhoea — is often the earliest red flag. “Constipation is usually due to blockage of stool from the cancer. Sometimes the uncontrollable diarrhea is water making its way around the cancer,” Dr Salhab said.

Blood in stool

One of the clearest signs, he warned, is blood in stool. Persistent bleeding should prompt immediate medical evaluation. “One of the hallmarks of colon cancer is seeing blood in your stool,” he stressed.

Doctors say rising cases among younger adults underline the need for greater awareness, early detection, and timely medical consultation when symptoms appear.