The Rising Tide of Young-Onset Colon Cancer: A 35-Year-Old’s Story and What It Means for You
Mark Seguin was living a typical life for a young father – balancing perform, family, and an active lifestyle that included snowboarding. Then, at 35, a searing stomach pain changed everything. His story, increasingly common, highlights a disturbing trend: colon cancer is no longer a disease of the elderly. It’s now the leading cause of cancer death in adults under 50.
From Stomach Pain to Shock Diagnosis
Seguin initially dismissed the pain as something he’d eaten. It came and went, sometimes feeling like appendicitis. But persistent discomfort prompted a visit to the emergency room, and a colonoscopy. The results were devastating: stage 3 colon cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes. “I never saw any blood in the toilet, so I didn’t reckon I had to worry about colon cancer,” Seguin shared.
His experience underscores a critical point. Symptoms can be vague and easily attributed to other, less serious conditions. Seguin’s initial pain was a searing sensation in the middle of his stomach, later shifting to his right side. This was caused by food getting stuck behind the tumor in his colon.
The Importance of Listening to Your Body
Seguin emphasizes the importance of paying attention to even subtle changes in your body. “One thing I like to say about that concept is the concept of listening to your body while it’s whispering to you, so you don’t have to deal with it when it’s screaming at you,” he said. Ignoring persistent discomfort, even if it seems minor, can have serious consequences.
Treatment and Recovery: A Focus on Strength
Seguin underwent surgery to remove a section of his intestines, followed by intense chemotherapy. The treatment was grueling, causing side effects like neuropathy and fatigue. He found staying hydrated particularly challenging, even repulsed by the smell of water. However, he was determined to regain his strength and quality of life.
After completing chemotherapy, Seguin committed to a strength training program. He discovered that exercise isn’t just beneficial for physical recovery; it may also play a crucial role in preventing cancer recurrence. Recent studies suggest exercise can be as effective as drugs in preventing colon cancer relapse.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Seguin also made adjustments to his diet, incorporating more fiber-rich foods and reducing his intake of ultra-processed meats. While he acknowledges it’s not about perfection, he believes small, evidence-backed changes can make a significant difference. He now focuses on incorporating something green into most meals.
Three Rules for Early Detection
Seguin offers three key takeaways for others:
- Listen to your body: If something feels off, don’t ignore it.
- Follow up: Don’t delay seeking medical attention and completing recommended tests.
- Get screened at 45: The recommended age for routine colonoscopies has been lowered to 45.
He stresses the importance of not dismissing symptoms and proactively seeking medical evaluation. “My doctor said the one thing I did that so many folks miss is actually going in for that next appointment, after leaving the ER.”
The Growing Trend of Young-Onset Colon Cancer
Seguin’s story is not unique. The incidence of colon cancer in people under 50 is rising, and it’s becoming the leading cause of cancer death in this age group. This alarming trend underscores the need for increased awareness, earlier screening, and a focus on preventative lifestyle measures.
Did you recognize? Colon cancer often has no early symptoms. That’s why screening is so critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the common symptoms of colon cancer? Symptoms can include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss. However, many people experience no symptoms in the early stages.
- At what age should I start getting screened for colon cancer? Current guidelines recommend starting regular screenings at age 45.
- Is colon cancer preventable? While not all cases are preventable, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce your risk.
- What is a colonoscopy? A colonoscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of your colon.
Pro Tip: Talk to your doctor about your individual risk factors for colon cancer and discuss the best screening plan for you.
Have you or a loved one been affected by colon cancer? Share your story in the comments below. To learn more about colon cancer prevention and early detection, click here.
