India, June 8 -- Colon cancer, once considered a disease that primarily affected older adults, is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people, with women emerging as a particularly concerning group. While routine screening is typically recommended from age 45 onwards, a growing number of cases are now being detected in people in their 30s.

The challenge is that colon cancer can develop quietly for years, with early symptoms often mistaken for common digestive complaints or menstrual issues. Recognising these warning signs and seeking timely medical attention can play a crucial role in early detection and better outcomes.

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist and hepatologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford Un...