Colon cancer is often considered a disease that primarily affects older adults, but recent trends show a disturbing rise in cases among younger people. The story of Raquel A., who was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer at just 32, highlights the importance of recognizing early symptoms, no matter your age. Raquel shares her experience with her condition online and wants others to be able to identify the disease as early as possible. She does this on her social accounts on TikTok and Instagram. Here are the first signs Raquel experienced and how they led to her diagnosis.
Frequent and Abnormal Bowel Movements
According to her story featured on SELF, one of the first signs Raquel noticed was an increase in the frequency of her bowel movements. She found herself going to the bathroom up to 10 times a day, yet never feeling like she had fully emptied her bowels.1 This symptom, which she initially attributed to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or dietary issues, was an early indication of something much more serious.
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Pencil-Thin Stools and Blood in the Stool
As Raquel’s condition progressed, her bowel movements became increasingly uncomfortable, and she began noticing that her stools were pencil-thin and sometimes tinged with blood. Despite these concerning signs, she delayed seeking medical help due to a lack of health insurance at the time. Thin stools and blood can be key indicators of colon cancer, often resulting from a tumor narrowing the intestinal passage.
Persistent Bloating and Early Satiety
Another symptom Raquel experienced was persistent bloating and a feeling of fullness after eating only small amounts of food. She experimented with various diets, eliminating dairy and gluten, but the bloating persisted. This sensation of early satiety and constant bloating is common in cases where a tumor obstructs the digestive tract.
Severe Abdominal Pain
In 2023, Raquel’s colon cancer symptoms escalated when she began experiencing severe abdominal pain that radiated throughout her entire abdomen and lower back. The pain became so intense that she eventually sought emergency medical care. Abdominal pain is a significant symptom that often indicates the cancer has progressed to an advanced stage.
Misdiagnosis and the Importance of Persistence
When Raquel first sought medical help, she was misdiagnosed with anxiety and possibly gastrointestinal issues like gas. This highlights a critical issue in healthcare, where young patients, particularly women and minorities, are sometimes dismissed. Raquel’s story emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking a second opinion if symptoms persist.
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Diagnosis: Colon Cancer at Stage Four
After undergoing a series of tests, including a CT scan, abdominal ultrasound, and liver biopsy, Raquel was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. The cancer had metastasized to her ovaries and liver. This diagnosis came as a shock, especially considering her young age, but it explained the severity and range of her symptoms.
The Need for Early Screening
Raquel’s experience underscores the importance of early screening for colon cancer, even in younger individuals. Recent guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommend that adults begin screening for colon cancer at age 45, reflecting the rising incidence of the disease in younger populations.2 Early detection can significantly improve outcomes, making screening a crucial step in cancer prevention.
Conclusion
Raquel A.’s story is a poignant reminder that colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age. The symptoms she experienced—frequent bowel movements, thin stools, bloating, and severe abdominal pain—are classic signs of advanced colon cancer. If you notice similar symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly and advocate for thorough testing. Early detection through screening can save lives, so don’t wait—get checked, even if you’re under 45.
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