I just got diagnosed last month after noticing blood in my stool in November, and eventually getting a colonoscopy. Fortunately, my case is still early stage and very treatable.
They just lowered the colonoscopy screening age to 45 (It was 50 until recently). I think if you can - you should start getting it earlier - around age 40 or maybe your late 30s.
The colon cancer rate is increasing with every generation. Children today have 500% rate increase:
"Yes, a 2024 analysis of CDC data (1999–2020) revealed that colorectal cancer incidence increased by 500% in children aged 10–14, and by 333% in teens aged 15–19. While these percentages sound alarming, the absolute number of cases remains very low, rising from 0.1 to 0.6 per 100,000 in children.
Key Findings on Rising Rates
- Children (10-14): 500% increase.
- Adolescents (15-19): 333% increase.
- Young Adults (20-24): 185% increase."