A doctor is warning people to pay closer attention to subtle symptoms that could signal bowel cancer, especially as cases rise among younger adults.
Dr Amir Khan explained that while the disease is often linked to older age, more people under 50 are now being diagnosed, making awareness more important than ever.
One of the most important warning signs is blood in your stool or bleeding from the rectum, which should never be ignored. Changes in bowel habits, such as going more often, diarrhea, or constipation, are also key indicators.
Other symptoms include persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and a feeling that you still need to go even after using the bathroom.
Doctors also highlight extreme tiredness or breathlessness, which can be caused by anemia linked to internal bleeding.
In some cases, a lump in the abdomen or rectal area may be present, though this is less common and usually detected during medical exams.
Experts say lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity may be contributing to the rise in cases, particularly in younger generations.
While these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, doctors stress that noticing them early and seeking medical advice can be life-saving.
