Colorectal cancer (CRC), once considered a disease of older adults, is increasingly affecting young Nigerians. Recent studies show that about 32% of colorectal cancer cases in Nigeria occur in people under 40, and many are diagnosed at advanced stages. This makes CRC one of the fastest-rising and most concerning cancer threats among young adults today.

Why This Matters

Globally, medical research has confirmed that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death in people under 50. While overall cancer deaths are declining, CRC is moving in the opposite direction, especially among younger people.

In Nigeria, the situation is even more worrying because many patients:

• Present late at hospitals
• Are diagnosed at advanced stages (Stage B or C)
• Have more aggressive tumour types

These factors significantly reduce survival chances.

Common Symptoms Young People Ignore

Many young Nigerians dismiss early warning signs, assuming they are minor or temporary. Doctors say these symptoms should never be ignored, especially if persistent:

• Rectal bleeding
• Ongoing constipation or diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
• Low blood levels (iron deficiency)

Rectal bleeding, in particular, is one of the most common symptoms reported by young CRC patients in Nigeria.

What’s Driving the Rise?

Health experts have not identified one single cause, but research points to a combination of factors:

• Poor diet (low fibre, high processed foods)
• Sedentary lifestyle and obesity
• Changes in gut bacteria
• Environmental exposures
• Genetic risk in some families

Studies in Nigeria also show that 60–85% of cases occur on the left side of the colon, especially around the rectum, making symptoms like bleeding more common.

Late Diagnosis Is the Biggest Risk

One major reason CRC deaths are rising among young people is late diagnosis. Many young adults do not consider cancer a possibility and delay seeking medical care. As a result, nearly three out of four young patients are diagnosed when the disease is already advanced.

Screening Can Save Lives

Medical guidelines now recommend colorectal cancer screening from age 45, or earlier if:

• You have a family history of colorectal cancer
• You experience persistent digestive symptoms

Experts agree that early detection is the most powerful tool we have to reduce deaths.

The Bottom Line

Colorectal cancer is no longer an “older person’s disease.”
Young Nigerians must pay attention to their bodies, seek medical advice early, and take preventive health seriously.

Awareness, early screening, and timely treatment can save lives.