American gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab has warned that colon cancer may develop with mild and easily overlooked symptoms, making early detection particularly important.
Speaking to HuffPost, the doctor said that persistent digestive changes, night sweats, chronic fatigue, and loss of appetite can sometimes be warning signs of the disease.
According to Salhab, cases of colon cancer among younger adults have continued to rise in recent years. One symptom that should never be ignored is the presence of blood in the stool, even in small amounts. While this can be linked to less serious conditions, it may also indicate a malignant tumor.
The specialist advised seeking medical attention whenever there is a lasting change in bowel habits. He noted that pencil-thin stools may be a sign of narrowing in the intestinal tract and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Frequent constipation, diarrhea, or unexplained alternation between the two may also warrant medical examination.
Salhab further highlighted severe night sweats as a potential warning sign. He emphasized that people should be especially cautious if they regularly wake up drenched in sweat without an obvious cause.
Doctors stress that these symptoms do not automatically indicate cancer, but persistent or unexplained changes should be assessed by a medical professional as early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
