Fatigue, bloating or changes in digestion they are among the symptoms that many consider harmless. However, according to experts, they can be early warning against bowel cancer, disease, the occurrence of which in younger people has been increasing in recent years, informs
Although the overall number of colorectal cancer cases has been declining since the 1980s thanks to prevention and screening, the situation worsens for people under 50 years of age. YouGov survey from 2025 showed that one in three Britons fail to recognize the symptoms of bowel cancerwhich can lead to delayed diagnosis and worse prognosis.
Donald Grantgeneral practitioner and chief clinical consultant pointed out five symptomswhich are often confused with common health problems.
Changes in digestion are a sensitive topic for many, but according to doctors, should not have been ignored. Long-term diarrhea, constipation or a feeling of incomplete emptying can be attributed to irritable bowel syndrome, hormonal fluctuations or dietbut they can also signal a more serious problem. “Anyone with long-term bowel problems should consider seeing a GP,” says Dr Grant.
Blood in the stool often associated with hemorrhoids or anal fissuresand many are ashamed to talk about it. However, according to experts, it can also be about one of the main symptoms of colon cancer. “Any occurrence of blood in the stool should be investigated by a doctor, no matter how harmless it may seem,” points out Dr. Grant.
Bloating is a common problem and its cause is often difficult to find. In women, it can also mask it menstrual cyclewhich makes it difficult to recognize more serious symptoms. Bloating may be related with digestion, food intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome, no prolonged and unexplained bloating it can also be a warning sign of bowel cancer.
Chronic fatigue is often attributed stress, lack of sleep or mental exhaustion. However, it can be a consequence of colon cancer anemia caused by internal bleedingwhich reduces the number of red blood cells. “That’s why fatigue is often overlooked because it has so many other possible causes,” explains Grant.
Sudden weight loss without changing diet or exercise should be considered very serious. It can be related to several serious diseases from hormonal disorders to cancer. “If someone is losing weight for no apparent reason, they should see a doctor as soon as possible,” adds the expert.
Dr. Grant admits that because many of the symptoms resemble common illnesses, it is not easy to detect colon cancer in time. That is why he emphasizes the importance of information. “Knowing the symptoms can lead to an earlier diagnosis and that can make the difference between life and death.”
