Rectal cancer deaths rising among under-50s: Key warning signs

Doctors have identified rectal bleeding and abdominal pain among the most common warning signs of rectal cancer as cases increase among younger adults.

According to HuffPost, specialists said blood may appear in stool or on toilet paper, while other symptoms include constipation, thinner stools, fatigue, unexplained weight loss and anaemia.

Experts warned that rectal bleeding can sometimes be mistaken for haemorrhoids or menstruation, potentially delaying medical evaluation.

Research cited in the report shows colorectal cancer rates among adults under 50 have risen significantly since 1988, although the disease remains relatively uncommon in younger people.

Doctors recommend investigating persistent gastrointestinal changes and beginning routine colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for adults at average risk, while earlier screening may be appropriate for some people with family histories.