Marisa Peters' journey shines a light on the urgent need for awareness about colorectal cancer symptoms among young adults.
Experiencing unexplained GI issues? Understand how they could relate to colorectal cancer, especially in younger demographics. This is not just a topic for older adults—it's time to address the alarming rise in young-onset colorectal cancer cases.
The Warning Signs Ignored
In late 2015, Marisa Peters was just 33 years old when she first noticed alarming symptoms. Blood appeared on the toilet paper after bowel movements, a concern that she raised with her doctor, who later dismissed it as typical postpartum changes. In her own words, Peters was perceived as a confident young mother, leading healthcare providers to chalk her symptoms up to childbirth. This type of dismissal—believing that symptoms of colorectal cancer are simply part of motherhood—can have devastating consequences.
Peters describes the escalation of her symptoms over five years: from small traces of blood to alarming quantities that suggested something more was amiss. "It went from ribbons of blood in the poop to filling the bowl with blood," she explains. This disturbing trend pointed to a life-threatening condition, which she ultimately determined through her own persistence.
Key Symptoms to Recognize
Increasing awareness of colorectal cancer symptoms is crucial, especially for those under 45. Here are the primary indicators to watch for
- Bloody stool or bleeding from the rectum
- Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
- Pain or pressure in the rectal area
- Unexplained fatigue
- Sudden weight loss without trying
- Abdominal cramps or discomfort
- Changes in stool quality, such as narrow or loose stools
The importance of recognizing these symptoms cannot be overstated, as early detection can save lives. Dr. David Rosen, a colorectal surgeon, states that colorectal cancer cases in younger populations are on the rise, underscoring the need for increased vigilance and early screening.
The Role of the Cologuard Test
After years of misdiagnosis, Marisa Peters finally found solace in her gastroenterologist’s recommendation for a Cologuard test. This non-invasive screening tool plays a pivotal role in detecting colorectal cancer early and is especially important for those with emerging symptoms. Peters recalls her hesitation: "At first, I didn’t know if I needed a colonoscopy. Then my doctors recommended we start with the Cologuard test."
To her surprise, the test came back positive, leading to a colonoscopy that revealed a tumor and confirmed the diagnosis of Stage 3 rectal cancer. The Cologuard test is immensely beneficial as it allows young patients or those uncomfortable with traditional screenings to take a proactive step in their health care.
Fighting Back: Treatment Options
Following her diagnosis, Peters' treatment regimen was intense and multifaceted. It consisted of
- Six rounds of chemotherapy
- 28 rounds of radiation, combined with oral chemotherapy
- A lengthy surgical procedure to remove the tumor and reconstruct her rectum
- A temporary ileostomy for recovery
- Additional rounds of chemotherapy following surgery
Throughout her battle, Peters exemplified strength and resilience. She emphasizes, "I feel like the real battle starts after treatment, when you realize what you've gone through. Thankfully, I had a complete response to treatment." Her story demonstrates that, while treatment may vary, options like chemotherapy for rectal cancer have shown efficacy for many patients facing similar diagnoses.
Making a Difference: Nonprofit Initiatives
Determined to prevent others from facing the same fate, Peters founded the nonprofit 'Be Seen'. This organization aims to raise awareness about young-onset colorectal cancer, introducing three core pillars
1. Awareness and Education - Many people, including young mothers, may dismiss their symptoms until it is too late. Awareness initiatives provide crucial information that can save lives.
2. Access to Screening - There is a pressing need for enhanced access to screening tests like the Cologuard test and colonoscopies.
3. Encouraging Action - Knowing the symptoms and having access to tests is one thing; taking action is another. The message is clear—if you experience symptoms, do not hesitate to request testing and screening.
A Family Affair: Raising Awareness
Peters has turned her journey into a family mission, sharing her story to make colorectal cancer awareness a priority in her community. "If I can help humanize and make this more realistic by sharing my own story, I am never going to stop sharing that," Peters expresses passionately. Engaging family and friends in awareness efforts can significantly broaden outreach and education efforts about colorectal cancer symptoms.
The conversation about young-onset colorectal cancer is more critical than ever. Increase in cases among those under 45 necessitates a cultural shift in how this type of cancer is viewed and treated. Being proactive, understanding symptoms, and asking for necessary tests could make all the difference.
Join the movement of awareness today. Be vocal about symptoms, advocate for screenings, and share stories like Marisa's to foster a community that prioritizes early detection and education around colorectal cancer.