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Colon cancer on a steady increase among young adults

Posted at 11:25 AM, Mar 02, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-02 18:26:52-05

A new American Cancer Society study shows  colon cancer is on a steady rise among young adults.

Doctors found someone born in 1990 has double the risk of early colon cancer and quadruple the risk of early rectal cancer compared to someone born in 1950.

According to the Colon Cancer Alliance, 10 percent of new colon cancer patients are under 50 years old.

Researchers don’t know why more millennials are being diagnosed with this aggressive cancer. However, some doctors believe diet, weight, and alcohol play a factor.

Warning signs of colon cancer are 
* Rectal bleeding
* Weight loss for no known reason
* Weakness or fatigue
* Nausea or vomiting
* Diarrhea, constipation or narrower stools than usual
* Bowel never feels empty
* Blood in your stool (bright red or very dark)
* Persistent cramps, gas, pain, or feeling full or bloated