June is Men’s Health Month, an important reminder for men to prioritize preventive care and stay current with recommended health screenings. While many people still think of colorectal cancer as a disease that primarily affects older adults, healthcare providers have seen a growing number of colorectal cancer diagnoses in recent years. The increase in cases among adults under 50 is one of the reasons national screening guidelines were updated to recommend that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Colorectal Cancer Is Increasing in Younger Adults
Colorectal cancer was once considered primarily an older adult disease, but diagnoses among younger adults have steadily increased. This shift has led to growing awareness about the importance of recognizing symptoms and discussing screening recommendations earlier.
Men may be especially likely to delay care due to demanding schedules, discomfort discussing digestive symptoms, or a tendency to “tough it out” and hope symptoms improve on their own. Dismissing persistent digestive changes can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Paying attention to ongoing symptoms and seeking medical evaluation when something feels abnormal can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.
Risk Factors Men Should Understand
Several lifestyle and health factors may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Lifestyle and Health Factors
A diet high in processed foods or red meat may contribute to increased risk. Other factors that may increase risk include obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and chronic inflammatory digestive conditions.
Family History and Genetics
Family history also plays an important role. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps may face a higher risk. While many polyps are noncancerous, some can develop into cancer over time if left untreated.
Sharing family medical history with healthcare providers is important because some individuals may benefit from screening before the standard recommended age.
Symptoms Men Should Not Ignore
Digestive symptoms can occur for many reasons, but persistent changes should never be ignored. Symptoms that may warrant medical evaluation include:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Persistent constipation, diarrhea, or bloating
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Narrow stools
- Feeling that the bowel does not fully empty
While these symptoms do not always indicate colorectal cancer, ongoing digestive changes deserve medical attention, especially when symptoms worsen over time.
Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters
Preventive screening remains one of the most effective tools for reducing colorectal cancer risk and detecting cancer early when treatment is often more successful. Current colorectal cancer screening recommendations generally begin at age 45 for average-risk adults. However, individuals with certain risk factors, including family history or inflammatory bowel disease, may need screening earlier.
A colonoscopy can identify and remove precancerous polyps before cancer develops. Many people feel nervous about scheduling a colonoscopy, but the procedure is routine, safe, and effective. During a colonoscopy, a physician uses a small camera to examine the colon for abnormalities. Sedation is typically used, and the procedure itself is brief. Preventive screening can provide peace of mind while helping protect long-term digestive health.
The Importance of Taking Digestive Symptoms Seriously
Many men normalize digestive discomfort or postpone care due to embarrassment, busy schedules, or the belief that symptoms are not serious enough to discuss with a provider. Unfortunately, waiting too long can allow conditions to progress and reduce treatment options.
Having an early conversation with a Gl specialist about symptoms, digestive concerns, family history, or screening recommendations can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults, making awareness and preventive care more important than ever. Men should pay attention to persistent digestive symptoms, understand their personal risk factors, and stay current with recommended colorectal cancer screenings.
Scheduling an appointment with a GI Alliance specialist to discuss symptoms, family history, or screening recommendations can be an important step toward protecting long-term health.
