Medical experts emphasize early diagnosis for rising colon cancer rates

General Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Abdulcabbar Kartal has highlighted the increasing prevalence of colon cancer in individuals under the age of 50. While traditionally associated with older age groups, recent trends show a rise in younger patients, underscoring the necessity of regular screening and early detection.

Risk factors associated with the disease include age, family history, and genetic predisposition, as well as lifestyle choices such as obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and high intake of red or processed meats.

Key symptoms to monitor include blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, and iron deficiency anemia of unknown cause. While these symptoms do not always indicate cancer, medical consultation is advised if they persist.

Prof. Dr. Kartal noted that many colon cancers originate from polyps, which can be detected and removed via colonoscopy before they turn malignant. While fecal occult blood and DNA tests are useful screening tools, they do not replace colonoscopy, especially if test results are positive or symptoms are present.