A Growing Concern for Younger Adults

SINGAPORE – In a troubling trend, Mr. Ambrose Lee was just 36 years old when he received a shocking diagnosis of colorectal cancer – a condition traditionally seen in individuals aged 50 and above. His case underscores a rising phenomenon that health officials are paying close attention to.

Baffling Symptoms Looked Past

In July 2022, Mr. Lee began experiencing alarming health issues including heart palpitations and shortness of breath. Initially, he dismissed these symptoms as lingering effects from a recent Covid-19 infection, but they were signs of a far more serious condition.

Reality Check for a Silent Disease

Colorectal cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages, causing many to ignore the subtle signs until it’s too late. Health professionals are urging younger adults to be vigilant about changes in their bodies and consult healthcare providers if they experience unexplained symptoms.

The Need for Awareness and Screening

As trends indicate an uptick in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger populations, there's an urgent call for increased awareness and early screening. This is crucial in saving lives and tackling a disease that shouldn't be associated solely with aging.