Lauren Ver Steeg was 26 when a persistent feeling of being unwell led to a diagnosis that would change her life: stage 3 rectal cancer. What began as dismissed “stomach problems” – frequent diarrhea and spotting blood – ultimately required a swift and aggressive treatment plan. Her story, shared openly during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, underscores a concerning trend: an increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger adults.
Ver Steeg’s initial reluctance to seek medical attention is a common thread in many early-stage diagnoses. She initially attributed her symptoms to hemorrhoids, a dismissal she now recognizes as a potentially dangerous delay. “I just wrote it off as hemorrhoids, like I think probably quite a few people do,” she recounted. It wasn’t until a friend encouraged her to follow up with a specialist that a colonoscopy revealed a malignant tumor in her rectum. This experience highlights the importance of advocating for one’s health and not dismissing persistent symptoms, even if they seem minor.
Rising Incidence in Younger Populations
Ver Steeg’s case isn’t isolated. According to a recent report from the American Cancer Society, rectal cancer incidence has been increasing by approximately 1% per year from 2018 to 2022. Rectal cancer now accounts for about one-third of all colorectal cancer diagnoses, up from roughly one-quarter in the mid-2000s. Perhaps more alarming is the fact that younger adults are often diagnosed at more advanced stages; around three out of four adults under 50 receive a diagnosis when the disease is already advanced. American Cancer Society
Treatment and a Fresh Perspective
Following her diagnosis in October 2023, Ver Steeg underwent a rigorous treatment regimen that included 30 days of radiation therapy followed by eight rounds of chemotherapy over four months, culminating in surgery. Now 28, she has been cancer-free for a year and a half and anticipates being considered fully cured after reaching the five-year milestone. Throughout her ordeal, Ver Steeg embraced humor as a coping mechanism, even giving her tumor a name: “Stu.” Her mother, a graphic designer, created a cartoon version of “Stu” that was later used on T-shirts to raise funds for colorectal cancer research.
“It’s not a light thing to be 26 and facing Stage 3 cancer, especially in your butt,” Ver Steeg said, explaining how humor helped her and her loved ones navigate the tough situation. “We kept saying, ‘Oh yeah, it’s a stupid tumor.’ That’s how we got to Stu.”
The Power of Open Conversation and Early Detection
Ver Steeg’s willingness to share her story has already had a ripple effect, prompting friends, family, and colleagues to address their own health concerns and schedule screenings. “In some little way, hopefully, me talking about it and making it a little more common knowledge and hopefully less stigmatized, it’s just allowed people to get more comfortable in sharing their concerns with their doctors, their friends, their family,” she said.
Colorectal cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in individuals under 50 and the second leading cause overall. However, it is highly treatable when detected early, and largely preventable through routine screening and healthy lifestyle choices. The American Cancer Society estimates that around 55% of colorectal cancers could be linked to modifiable risk factors, including a lack of physical activity, excessive consumption of alcohol and red/processed meats, and insufficient intake of calcium, whole grains, and fiber.
Ver Steeg hopes her experience will inspire others to prioritize their health and take proactive steps toward prevention. “Early detection really is key,” she emphasized. “To throw a butt joke in there, it’ll save you on the back complete of things later on.”
As awareness grows and screening guidelines evolve, continued research and open dialogue will be crucial in combating this rising health challenge. The focus now shifts to understanding the underlying causes of this increase in younger adults and refining strategies for early detection and effective treatment.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.