For most of us, constipation is just an annoying inconvenience—a temporary issue we solve with a fiber boost or an over-the-counter remedy. But for one man in the UK, persistent trouble passing stools turned out to be an early warning sign of something far more serious: stage four colon cancer. His story serves as a stark reminder that we shouldn’t ignore persistent digestive issues, and it raises important questions about the rising rates of bowel cancer, especially in younger adults.
When Constipation Isn’t Just Constipation
Mr. Michael, who had recently moved to Missouri to help with his parents’ classic car parts business, began experiencing severe constipation in October of last year. After trying every remedy available without success, he sought help at an urgent care center. Doctors prescribed a powerful laxative, which relieved his symptoms temporarily. But something still didn’t feel right.
Initially, he suspected he had faecal impaction—a condition where hardened stool becomes stuck in the rectum. However, after taking a sip of a fizzy drink and experiencing intense, shooting abdominal pain, he knew something was seriously wrong. A return visit to the urgent care led to a CT scan, which revealed a mass in his colon. The diagnosis? Stage four colon cancer.
The Rising Threat of Bowel Cancer in Younger Adults
Colon cancer has long been considered a disease affecting older individuals, but research shows that it is becoming increasingly common in younger adults. A study found that bowel cancer rates in adults aged 25 to 49 rose in 27 out of 50 countries between 2007 and 2017. England, in particular, saw an average annual increase of 3.6%. According to Cancer Research UK, cases of bowel cancer in younger adults have surged by 52% since the early 1990s.
So, what’s behind this alarming trend? Experts aren’t entirely sure, but potential culprits include poor diets, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. Whatever the cause, the numbers suggest that more young people should be aware of the warning signs and seek medical attention when something feels off.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Constipation alone isn’t necessarily a sign of cancer, but when it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it should raise a red flag. Some key symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- Bleeding from the bottom or blood in the stool
- Ongoing stomach pain or cramps
- A lump in the stomach
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Unexplained fatigue
- Sudden weight loss without trying
With around 2,600 new cases of bowel cancer diagnosed in people aged 25-49 each year in the UK—and 44,100 across all age groups—it’s clear that awareness and early detection are crucial.
What Can We Do?
While some risk factors for colon cancer, like genetics, are out of our control, others can be managed through lifestyle changes. Doctors recommend:
- Eating a fiber-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Reducing processed and red meat consumption
- Staying active and exercising regularly
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding excessive alcohol and quitting smoking
- Getting regular screenings, especially if there’s a family history of the disease
A Life-Saving Lesson
Mr. Michael’s story highlights the importance of listening to your body. What seemed like a simple case of constipation turned out to be a life-threatening illness. His persistence in seeking medical attention ultimately led to his diagnosis, serving as a vital lesson for all of us: if something feels off, don’t ignore it. Early detection can make all the difference.
With bowel cancer cases projected to rise in the coming years, it’s more important than ever to spread awareness and encourage proactive healthcare. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent digestive issues, don’t wait—get checked out. It might just save a life.
