Colorectal Cancer: The Signs We Should Not Ignore
When I speak to patients about cancer, one thing I always emphasise is this: our body often gives us signals before a serious problem becomes obvious. We should learn to listen to them.
Colorectal cancer is one of those cancers where early attention can make a meaningful difference. It develops in the colon or rectum and, particularly in its earlier stages, may cause very few or even no noticeable symptoms.
This is why I feel colorectal cancer awareness is important—not to create fear, but to encourage people to recognise changes in their health and seek medical advice at the right time.
What signs should we not ignore?
Some symptoms that can occur with colorectal cancer include:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- A persistent change in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea
- A feeling that you need to pass stool even after having a bowel movement
- Persistent abdominal pain, cramps or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
These symptoms do not automatically mean cancer. Many common conditions, including haemorrhoids, infections and other bowel disorders, can cause similar problems. But that is precisely why they should not simply be ignored. The cause needs to be understood.
Blood in the stool deserves attention
One symptom I particularly want people to take seriously is blood in the stool.
Sometimes the blood is clearly visible. At other times, bleeding may be small enough that it cannot be seen with the naked eye. Colorectal cancers can bleed into the digestive tract, and the stool may sometimes appear darker as a result.
Please don’t assume that bleeding is “just piles” without getting it properly evaluated—especially if it is recurrent or accompanied by a change in bowel habits, weight loss or persistent abdominal symptoms.
Who may be at higher risk?
Age is an important risk factor, but it is not the only one.
A family history of colorectal cancer, excess body weight, physical inactivity, smoking and unhealthy alcohol use can increase risk. Certain medical and inherited conditions can also place a person at higher risk.
At the same time, having no known risk factor does not mean that someone cannot develop colorectal cancer.
That is an important point because I have seen how easily people can become falsely reassured by thinking, “There is no cancer in my family, so I don’t need to worry.”
Cancer does not always follow such predictable rules.
Screening is about finding problems before they become serious
This is where screening becomes especially important.
For people at average risk, current American Cancer Society guidance recommends beginning regular colorectal cancer screening at 45 years of age. Screening is generally continued through age 75 for people in good health, while decisions for those aged 76–85 should be individualised based on health, life expectancy, previous screening and personal preferences.
Screening is not only about finding cancer early. Some screening methods can identify precancerous polyps, which can potentially be removed before they develop into cancer.
The appropriate screening method and interval should be discussed with your doctor, particularly if you have symptoms, a strong family history or other risk factors.
Don’t wait for severe symptoms
One of the misconceptions I often encounter is that cancer must cause severe pain before it becomes serious.
That is not necessarily true.
Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Waiting until symptoms become severe can mean losing valuable time. Screening and timely evaluation are therefore important tools in reducing the burden of this disease.
If you notice persistent changes in your bowel habits, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal discomfort or unusual fatigue, please speak to a doctor rather than trying to explain the symptoms away yourself.
A simple message I want everyone to remember
Don’t be embarrassed to talk about bowel symptoms.
People sometimes hesitate to discuss blood in the stool or changes in bowel habits because they feel uncomfortable talking about these things. As a doctor, I would much rather a patient come forward early with a concern that turns out to be something harmless than wait because they were embarrassed.
Early consultation does not mean that you have cancer.
It simply means that you are taking your health seriously.
Colorectal cancer is not something we should fear silently. With awareness, appropriate screening and timely medical evaluation, we have important opportunities to detect problems earlier and manage them appropriately.
Be aware today. Get screened when appropriate. Don’t ignore the signs.
Dr. SK Haidar Ali
MBBS, MD (Radiation Oncology)
Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist
This article is intended for general health awareness and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Screening recommendations may vary according to personal and family history. If you have symptoms or concerns, please consult a qualified medical professional.
