Colon cancer used to mostly affect older adults. Today, doctors are seeing more cases in people in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s.
Many younger patients:
Have no family history of colon cancer
Feel generally healthy
Experience subtle symptoms often mistaken for common digestive issues
This can delay diagnosis, and cancer may be found at a more advanced stage.
Why awareness matters:
Early screening can detect cancer before it progresses
Paying attention to digestive symptoms helps protect your health
Families in Charleston and the Lowcountry should stay informed about risk
Board-certified gastroenterologists at Charleston GI diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive conditions and cancers. Using advanced tools and techniques, they help relieve symptoms and manage disease. Open five days a week with no referral needed, it’s easy to see a trusted specialist. Contact Charleston GI today to take charge of your digestive health.
Colon cancer usually develops slowly. Most cases start as small growths called polyps. These can take years to turn into cancer and often cause no symptoms. Early detection through screening can prevent cancer.
Many digestive issues are temporary or harmless, but some symptoms should be checked if they persist or worsen. Common warning signs include:
Other conditions such as stomach viruses, food poisoning, hemorrhoids, and stress can cause similar symptoms. If symptoms last more than a few days, keep returning, or include blood in the stool, contact a healthcare provider.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
You may need colon cancer screening before age 45 if you have:
A parent, sibling, or close relative with colon cancer or polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
A known genetic condition like Lynch syndrome
Persistent symptoms such as blood in stool, ongoing abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss
Screening may start 10 years earlier than the age your relative was diagnosed or as recommended by your doctor. You should also consider seeing a gastroenterologist if you:
Have ongoing digestive symptoms with no clear cause
Notice blood in your stool or on toilet paper
Have a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps
Have inflammatory bowel disease
Are concerned about your digestive health, even without severe symptoms
Trust your instincts. Seeking care early can make a meaningful difference. A board certified gastroenterologist can help determine the right time and method for screening.
Colonoscopy: Detects and removes polyps during the same procedure
Stool-based tests: Check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA
Imaging tests: Examine the colon for abnormalities
Your gastroenterologist can help decide which test is best based on your age, symptoms, and risk factors.
Charleston GI offers a full range of colon cancer screening services, including stool testing and colonoscopy. No referral is required, so Charleston residents can contact us directly to begin screening.
TREATMENT
Colon cancer treatment depends on the stage of the cancer. For early-stage cancer:
Surgery is usually the main treatment to remove the cancer
Chemotherapy may be given after surgery, called adjuvant treatment, typically for about six months
Your gastroenterologist can provide guidance on the best treatment options for your specific situation.
PREVENTION
Routine Screenings
Colorectal cancer screenings can save lives, and are recommended routinely, starting at age 45.
Positive Lifestyle Changes
Increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco can reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Healthy Diet
GI specialists often recommend a low-fat diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Why is colon cancer rising in younger adults?
Research shows that colon cancer rates are increasing in people under 50. There is no single cause, but several factors raise risk:
Diets high in processed foods and low in fiber
Sedentary lifestyle or limited physical activity
Obesity or being overweight
Smoking and frequent alcohol use
Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract
Personal or family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Not everyone with colon cancer has these risk factors, but understanding them helps guide prevention and screening decisions.
What age should I start colon cancer screening?
According to the American Cancer Society, most adults should begin screening at age 45, even if you feel healthy, have no symptoms, or no family history. The recommendation was lowered from 50 due to rising cases in younger adults.
Who should be screened earlier than age 45?
Early screening may be needed if you:
Have a family history of colon cancer or polyps
Have inflammatory bowel disease
Have a genetic condition such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis
Belong to groups with higher colorectal cancer risk
Your doctor can create a personalized screening plan.
Can screening prevent colon cancer? According to research, most colorectal cancers start as precancerous polyps. Screening can find and remove these polyps before they become cancerous. Early detection also improves treatment outcomes.
What are the common symptoms of colon cancer?
According to the American College of Surgeons, even if you are under age 45, certain symptoms should prompt evaluation by a doctor.
See a doctor if you notice:
Blood in your stool
Abdominal pain or bloating
Constipation or diarrhea
Feeling your bowel does not fully empty
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
Even people under 45 should be evaluated if these symptoms persist.
Can colon cancer occur in people under 50?
Yes. CDC research shows colon cancer is rising in people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Many young adults have no family history.
How often should I be screened?
For average-risk adults, screening starts at 45 and repeats every 10 years if results are normal. Research shows that those with higher risk or polyps may need more frequent testing.
Are there alternatives to colonoscopy?
Yes, for example, stool-based tests can detect cancer or polyps. If results are abnormal, a colonoscopy is needed. We recommend you partner with your gastroenterologist for the best testing and procedures for your health concerns.
Does family history affect my risk? Research shows that if a parent, sibling, or child had colon cancer, your risk is higher. Screening may need to start earlier.
How does inflammatory bowel disease affect risk?
According to research by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase colorectal cancer risk. You may need earlier and more frequent screenings.
What is the difference between colon and rectal cancer?
Research shows that colon cancer affects the large intestine, while rectal cancer affects the last part of the colon before the anus. Both share similar symptoms and screening tests.
Can lifestyle affect my risk?
Research shows that healthy lifestyle habits may lower colorectal cancer risk:
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limit processed foods and high-fat foods
Stay physically active
Avoid smoking and heavy alcohol use
If I have symptoms, does that mean I have cancer?
No. Many conditions like hemorrhoids or infections can cause similar symptoms. Persistent symptoms should still be evaluated early for best results.
SCHEDULE YOUR GI APPOINTMENT TODAY, NO REFERRAL NEEDED
To learn more about treatments and early screening for GI issues in Charleston, SC, get in touch today! Charleston Gastroenterology is committed to a higher standard of caring – and we provide a range of medical treatments to help you feel your best.
Medical Disclaimer: Information is for general education only and not medical advice. Screening guidelines and recommendations may change and vary by individual. Viewing this page does not create a doctor-patient relationship.
To learn more about treatments and early screening for GI issues in Charleston, SC, get in touch today! Charleston Gastroenterology is committed to a higher standard of caring – and we provide a range of medical treatments to help you feel your best.
