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Rectal cancer is often at a more advanced stage by the time symptoms appear. Common signs to watch for include:

• Changes in Bowel Habits: Diarrhea, constipation or needing to go more often.
• Feeling of Incomplete Bowel Movements: A sense that your bowel doesn’t fully empty.
• Rectal Bleeding: Bright red or dark maroon blood in your stool.
• Narrow Stool: Bowel movement that looks thinner than usual, like a pencil or string.
• Abdominal Discomfort: Gas pains, bloating, cramping or general stomach pain.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Vomiting: In some cases, nausea and vomiting may occur.

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they don’t go away, talk to a doctor.

A Worrying Trend: The Rise of Colon and Rectal Cancers in Younger Adults

More young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, including those in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. Experts don’t know exactly why, but research suggests that diet, obesity, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol use, and environmental factors may play a role. Family history can also increase the chance of developing the disease.

Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men under 50 and the second-leading cause in women under 50.  Due to these rising numbers, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45 in 2021. Doctors are concerned that symptoms in young adults are often dismissed or mistaken for less serious conditions like hemorrhoids, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Dana-Farber Brigham 天美传媒 is proud to offer specialized care for people under 50 with colorectal cancer. We are one of the first centers in the country focused only on colon and rectal cancer in young adults. We understand that being diagnosed at a younger age comes with unique challenges, and we’re here to provide expert care and support every step of the way.

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Know the Difference: Is it Hemorrhoids, Anal Cancer or Colorectal Cancer?

One of the biggest challenges with rectal cancer is that it’s often found late, especially in younger adults. This happens because screenings are delayed, symptoms aren’t always recognized right away, or the symptoms might be confused with hemorrhoids, a common non-cancerous condition. As a result, many cases are diagnosed at a more advanced stage.

While hemorrhoids, anal cancer, and colorectal cancer can share symptoms like rectal bleeding, they are very different conditions. Speaking with a doctor is the best way to determine the cause of your symptoms and get the right treatment.

Types of Bleeding

• Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in or around the anus, similar to varicose veins. They are common and not linked to cancer. The bleeding produced by hemorrhoids tends to be bright red in color during or after a bowel movement. Other symptoms to watch out for are mild pain, itching, and discomfort around the anus.
• Colorectal Cancer: A tumor in the colon or rectum that can spread if not treated early. The bleeding in this case is dark or bright red blood that may appear at any time. The symptoms are more serious: 
  • Persistent bleeding
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, feeling unable to empty the bowel)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Extreme fatigue
• Anal Cancer: A rare cancer that develops in the anal canal. It can produce some bright red blood but usually it is a tumor that can be felt by the patient. It almost often can be detected by physical exam. 

If you have ongoing symptoms, talk to your doctor right away to rule out serious conditions and get the right care.

Learn if you are at risk for rectal cancer: