Can Young Adults Develop Colon Cancer? IBS Symptoms and Risks

Am I too young to get colon cancer...?

Hello Doctor: I am 22 years old, and I have had gastrointestinal issues since childhood.
My diet tends to lean towards Western and heavily flavored foods; I enjoy barbecued and grilled foods, fast food from places like McDonald's, cakes, and I love drinking bubble tea.
I also have a habit of drinking alcohol.
I do not like to exercise and usually prefer sitting or lying down.
Additionally, I rarely eat fruits and vegetables, which has led to chronic constipation, with occasional diarrhea that is accompanied by severe cramping.
The pain during bowel movements feels like it radiates from my anus deep into my intestines.

About a year ago, I switched to a sales job, which has disrupted my regular meal schedule.
I often eat very late or skip meals entirely, leading to increased bloating and persistent gas, sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain.
When I have diarrhea, it is often accompanied by intense cramping, while most of my usual abdominal pain is a dull ache, primarily in the lower left quadrant.
I also experience a significant sensation of a foreign body in my throat.
Due to my habit of staying up late, I usually go to bed after 1 or 2 AM, and I sometimes feel fatigued, although I feel better on weekends when I can sleep in.
However, about 3 to 4 months ago, I noticed my gastrointestinal condition worsening, with more frequent bloating and throat discomfort.
I experienced these symptoms several times a day.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, after a barbecue, I had a bout of gastroenteritis that resulted in diarrhea.
A week later, after another barbecue, I took a sip of fresh milk from the fridge (which was newly purchased and not spoiled), and later that night, I woke up vomiting brown liquid that was very bitter, likely bile.
I vomited twice and continued to feel nauseous and bloated, which was quite painful.
After visiting a clinic and taking the prescribed medication, I felt better.
However, since then, I feel my gastrointestinal health has deteriorated further, possibly due to my pre-existing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Currently, my ongoing symptoms include persistent bloating, uncontrollable gas, and a sensation of a foreign body in my throat that causes me to burp loudly, which is quite embarrassing.
I experience alternating diarrhea and constipation, with my stools being dark and foul-smelling, and I still have abdominal pain, mostly in the lower left quadrant.

I did some online research and found that the symptoms of colorectal cancer and IBS are quite similar.
I have a history of anemia since childhood, but I am unsure how to assess it now.
I am not very clear on whether anyone in my family has had colorectal cancer, but I do know of a relative who had stomach cancer; I wonder if that is related.
Given my young age, I would like to ask if IBS can potentially progress to colorectal cancer.
Please provide me with your insights.
Thank you!

Miss Vicky, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/12

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Based on the symptoms, gastrointestinal dysfunction is the most likely condition.
It is essential to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
If your dietary and lifestyle habits do not improve, even if you are currently asymptomatic, you will still remain at high risk for colorectal cancer in the future.

Reply Date: 2016/10/12

More Info

It's understandable to be concerned about your health, especially when experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms at a young age. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns regarding the risk of colon cancer and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, it's important to note that while colon cancer can occur in young adults, it is relatively rare. The average age of diagnosis for colon cancer is typically over 50, and the incidence in individuals under 30 is exceedingly low. However, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing colon cancer, including a family history of the disease, certain genetic syndromes, inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.

From your description, it seems you have been experiencing a range of gastrointestinal issues, including alternating constipation and diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and a sensation of a lump in your throat. These symptoms are often associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. IBS can cause symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Stress, diet, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate these symptoms.

Your dietary habits, which include a high intake of processed foods, fried foods, and low consumption of fruits and vegetables, can significantly impact your digestive health. A diet lacking in fiber can lead to constipation and may contribute to the symptoms you are experiencing. Increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help improve bowel regularity and overall gut health. Additionally, staying hydrated and engaging in regular physical activity are crucial for maintaining digestive health.

Regarding your concerns about the potential link between IBS and colon cancer, current research indicates that IBS itself does not increase the risk of developing colon cancer. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in your symptoms. If you notice significant changes in your bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

The symptoms you described, such as black stools and severe abdominal pain, warrant further investigation. Black stools can indicate bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which could be due to various causes, including ulcers or gastritis. Given your history of gastrointestinal issues and the recent episode of vomiting bile, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as a stool test, blood work, or imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions.

As for your family history of cancer, while having a relative with gastric cancer may not directly correlate with an increased risk of colon cancer, it is still essential to be aware of your family history and discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your family history and symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, the likelihood of developing colon cancer at your age is low. However, it is essential to address your gastrointestinal symptoms and make lifestyle changes to improve your digestive health. A balanced diet rich in fiber, regular exercise, and adequate hydration can significantly benefit your overall well-being. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for further evaluation and management.

Similar Q&A

Concerns and Confusions About Bowel Issues in Young Adults

Hello, doctor. First, let me provide my age and other information: I am currently 20 years old, 167 cm tall, and weigh 110 lbs. I plan to lose weight, but due to academic pressure, my diet and sleep have been very irregular. Since the second semester of my freshman year, I often ...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
At your age, the risk of colorectal cancer is low. Some cases of early-onset colorectal cancer are associated with genetic history or strong environmental factors, but lifestyle habits have a greater impact on bowel movements. Irregular bowel habits are related to diet, daily rou...

Understanding Colorectal Cancer Risk in Younger Individuals: A Guide

Hello, my sister has recently been complaining about symptoms of colon cancer. However, I heard that colon cancer typically occurs in people around their 40s or 50s, and while there are cases in teenagers, that is usually due to family history. Is it possible for a 16-year-old wi...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Colorectal cancer commonly occurs around the age of 50, but there has been a trend of increasing incidence in younger individuals. This is generally associated with polyp syndromes, familial inheritance, and poor dietary habits. It is important for younger individuals to d...

Understanding Early Signs of Colon Cancer: A Guide for Young Adults

Hello Doctor, I am a college student who often eats out, and constipation has always been a minor issue for me. During the three years I've lived away from home, I have visited the clinic twice due to abdominal pain caused by constipation. Recently, I have been trying to los...

Dr. Xu Wenming reply Pharmacology
Hello Yuki: Please do not make assumptions. I recommend that you go to the hospital for relevant examinations. If you have any questions regarding medications, feel free to visit the medication consultation desk for further assistance.

Understanding Bowel Issues: Are You at Risk for Colon Cancer?

Hello doctor, I am 18 years old. Recently, for the past month, I have frequently felt the urge to have a bowel movement, but I don't always have one. When I do, the stool is thin and small. Additionally, I have been experiencing occasional lower abdominal pain in the past fe...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
At the age of 18, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but it is generally very low. Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoidal swelling. It is recommended to maintain a light diet and a good lifestyle routine. Spicy, irritating, and greasy ...