Colon cancer is no longer a disease affecting older generations: it appears to be trickling down into younger age groups, putting pressure on scientists to figure out why.
So far, researchers point to obesity as one of several potential contributors to this concerning trend and stress that lifestyle modifications could be instrumental in reducing risk.
Spotting the symptoms is also crucial, with more survivors bringing this issue into focus. Among them is Alondra Gibson, who received a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis at 31 years old.
The content creator had left her corporate position in 2024, determined to achieve optimal fitness in preparation for motherhood.
Alondra Gibson received a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis at 31
|TIKTOK
Her initial symptom, according to a recent clip, manifested as persistent diarrhoea experienced while visiting family in Florida.
"I always came up with every excuse in the world, (like) 'I ate something that was expired,'" she recalled.
But the situation deteriorated drastically following her grandmother's passing in June 2025. And during that emotionally taxing period, Gibson found herself unable to sleep or eat properly while keeping vigil at the hospital.
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She was also plagued with exhaustion and would sleep for days after returning home from overnight stays at her grandmother's bedside.
And because Gibson was preparing for a yoga certification in Bali scheduled for October 2025, she kept attributing her slow recovery to the numerous life changes occurring simultaneously.
The turning point arrived when she returned from the trip and was struck by excruciating abdominal pains. "They felt like I was having a cramp, but times 20, it was insane," she recalled. "I thought I was going to pass out."
The severity forced her to cut the journey short and seek medical attention, first at an urgent care facility before being directed to the hospital.
She has shared several posts about the warning signs in a bid to prevent individuals who might dismiss them.
How to prevent colon cancer
Maintaining a nutritious diet combined with regular physical activity may help lower the likelihood of developing bowel cancer, while simultaneously offering protection against cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Dr David Clarke, who serves as President of the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms, also stresses the importance of earlier screening.
He told GB News: "Due to the trend of colon cancer rates increasing in young adults, major health organisations now recommend that average-risk individuals begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45, rather than 50."
Alondra ignored her symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis
|GOFUNDME
Individuals with elevated risk factors, including family history, genetic conditions, or inflammatory bowel disease, should consider screening even sooner and at more frequent intervals.
Doctors will generally recommend procedures such as a colonoscopy to identify and remove precancerous growths before they become malignant.
"Early detection through screening, such as colonoscopy, can find and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer," he explained.
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