Blood in the stool, bowel movements, exhaustion, unexplained weight loss, and family history are among the symptoms that Dr. Saurabh Sethi emphasizes, and he advises early screening to save lives.
2 September 2025, New Delhi
On September 1, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at Harvard, AIIMS, and Stanford, used Instagram to raise awareness about colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, by sharing eight important warning signs that should never be ignored. He explained that cancers of the colon or rectum usually develop silently, which is why many people fail to recognize the early indicators.
Among the first signs to watch out for is blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or dark and tarry, often mistaken for simple haemorrhoids but potentially a serious symptom of internal bleeding. Persistent bowel changes such as constipation, diarrhoea, or unusually narrow stools that last for several days also require medical attention. Abdominal pain, frequent cramping, or unexplained bloating should not be dismissed either. Another red flag is unexplained weight loss, especially when it happens without changes in diet or lifestyle, as it may indicate poor nutrient absorption caused by gut issues.
Chronic fatigue, weakness, or dizziness can also result from slow internal bleeding leading to anaemia, making it another subtle but important sign of colon cancer. Dr. Sethi further highlighted that unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia, particularly in men and post-menopausal women, may signal hidden internal blood loss and should not be ignored. A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying, where it seems like one “cannot finish” even after a movement, could point toward blockage or tumour growth.
Finally, family history plays a crucial role, as individuals with close relatives diagnosed with colon cancer face a higher risk and should be more proactive about screening. Stressing the importance of early detection, Dr. Sethi explained that when colon cancer is identified in its early stages, the five-year survival rate is as high as 90 percent, making timely diagnosis and treatment life-saving. He urged people not to ignore even mild or subtle symptoms and to consult a physician as soon as warning signs appear. The expert also underscored that preventive measures like colonoscopy are extremely effective and can detect precancerous growths before they turn life-threatening. “Don’t wait if you notice symptoms. Get screened—colonoscopy saves lives,” Dr. Sethi emphasized, urging people to take proactive steps for their health.
