Bhubaneswar, July 14: Colon cancer which was once seen as a disease mostly affecting older people, has now become common among the youth. Doctors are seeing more cases in younger adults, especially millennials. People born in 1990 have twice the risk of getting colon cancer compared to those born in 1950, shows a new study published in the British Journal of Surgery.

Florida-based gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab shared five early warning signs that young people should take seriously, and called this trend alarming.

Rectal bleeding is one of the most concerning symptoms of Colon Cancer. Blood in your stool or on toilet paper, whether it is dark or bright red, should not be ignored. While it might be something harmless like hemorrhoids, constant bleeding needs medical attention.

Persistent belly pain is another major signal that should not be ignored at any cost. If you experience abdominal pain that does not go away or gets worse without any clear reason, it could be a sign of something more serious, especially if it feels like cramping or bloating.

Fatigue or weakness that sticks around even after rest is another common symptom that should not be brushed off. Young adults often blame stress or lack of sleep, but constant fatigue can be a warning sign of Colon Cancer.

Changes in bowel habits, like long lasting constipation or diarrhea, should be checked out. Even how often you visit your bathroom can point to an issue.

Other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, night sweats, or low grade fevers, especially when they occur together, could also hint at cancer.

Experts like Sara Char from the study stress that early detection can save lives. She also notes that poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and genetic factors might be behind the rise in younger patients

Colon cancer is treatable but only if caught before it is too late.