Shannon Ivey, a 42-year-ancient single mother from Columbia, South Carolina, initially dismissed concerning symptoms as the onset of perimenopause. It wasn’t until a startling weight loss – 26 pounds over six months – revealed itself on a gym scale that she realized something was profoundly wrong. Her story, recently shared with TODAY.com, underscores the growing importance of recognizing subtle signs of colorectal cancer, a disease increasingly diagnosed in younger adults.
Ivey’s experience highlights a concerning trend: rising rates of colorectal cancer, particularly rectal cancer, among individuals under 50. What began as “mystery blood” she attributed to hormonal changes, coupled with pencil-thin stools and a persistent feeling of incomplete bowel movements, ultimately led to a Stage 3 rectal cancer diagnosis. Her journey, detailed in her fresh memoir “Welcome to the Sh*t Show: A Memoir of Colorectal Cancer and the Power of Self-Advocacy,” is a powerful call to listen to your body and advocate for your health.
The Subtle Signs of a Serious Illness
For months, Ivey grappled with symptoms she initially connected to lifelong gut issues and early perimenopause, a common experience for women in her family. She tried remedies like a toilet stool and increasing her fiber intake, hoping to alleviate the discomfort. However, the unexplained weight loss proved to be the pivotal moment. “I knew that I was incredibly sick when I saw that number,” she recalled. This dramatic change, noticed after a comment from her son’s school bus driver, prompted her to seek medical attention.
Rectal cancer, which begins in the rectum – the final six inches of the large intestine where stool is stored – is becoming more prevalent. According to the American Cancer Society, it now accounts for almost one-third, or 32%, of all colorectal cancer cases, up from 27% in the mid-2000s. Common symptoms include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), narrow stools, and the sensation of incomplete evacuation, as outlined by the National Cancer Institute.
A Growing Concern: Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adults
Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for individuals under 50 and the second leading cause for all ages, according to the American Cancer Society. Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society, emphasized the importance of recognizing bodily changes and promptly reporting them to a doctor, stating, “While we don’t know the drivers” of the increase in rectal cancer, “it does emphasize the importance of knowing your body and reporting symptoms to your doctor early.”
Ivey’s diagnosis led to a rigorous treatment plan, including 28 radiation treatments, oral chemotherapy, surgery to remove the tumor, and a second round of chemotherapy. Balancing treatment with the responsibilities of single motherhood was incredibly challenging. She worried constantly about her young son and the possibility of leaving him without a mother. She even made a will and considered what would happen to her son if her health deteriorated, and discussed the possibility of him living with his father full-time.
Navigating the Healthcare System as a Single Patient
Ivey’s experience also shed light on the challenges faced by patients navigating the healthcare system without a partner or family support network. She wished the system didn’t automatically assume everyone had someone to assist them with appointments and procedures. She often found herself alone during medical appointments and relied on friends for transportation to procedures, highlighting the need for greater support for single patients.
After nearly a decade since her diagnosis, Ivey, now 51, is doing well, with ongoing monitoring showing no evidence of disease. She urges others to be proactive about their health and to advocate for themselves. “You know your body best, but you’re also the only person that can take yourself to the doctor. Your spouse can’t make you go, your friend can’t, your mom can’t — only you,” she says.
Ivey’s story serves as a powerful reminder that early detection is crucial in the fight against colorectal cancer. Paying attention to changes in your body and seeking medical attention promptly can significantly improve outcomes. As research continues to explore the reasons behind the rising incidence of this disease, particularly in younger adults, continued vigilance and self-advocacy remain paramount.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
What are your thoughts on the increasing rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
