Colorectal cancer diagnoses in individuals under 50 are projected to double by 2030. Early screening is vital to improve survival rates and prevent late-stage detection.
Sara Beran’s journey is a harrowing reminder of this pressing issue. At just 34 years old, she dismissed alarming symptoms, believing them to be just another sign of her busy life as a mother and small business owner. Her story highlights the importance of awareness and proactive health measures, especially in younger populations.
A Rising Threat: Understanding the Statistics
Colorectal cancer is becoming a significant health concern among younger adults. Excluding skin cancers, it ranks as the third most common cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. With a rapid increase in cases among individuals under 50, it is imperative to acknowledge that the disease often presents in more advanced stages, resulting in lower survival rates. In fact, it is now the deadliest cancer for men under 50 and the second deadliest for women in the same age group.
Sara Beran's Story of Resilience and Advocacy
Sara Beran, a mother of two from Southern California, is a prime example of how crucial it is to recognize early symptoms. Like many, she attributed her frequent bathroom visits to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which affects up to 45 million Americans. Over time, her symptoms deteriorated, with the appearance of blood in her stool ultimately leading her to seek medical help.
Initially, a gastroenterologist suspected a parasite might be the cause, sending Beran home with a stool test that came back normal. However, as symptoms worsened, her intuition urged her to push for further examination. What followed was a shock that changed her life: a diagnosis of stage 4 colorectal cancer. Facing this challenge with her two young children and husband motivated her to fight with every resource available.
Health Measures and Avoiding Delays
The alarming rise in colorectal cancer cases emphasizes the need for early screenings. Experts suggest that individuals, particularly those with symptoms like unexplained bleeding or changes in bowel habits, should advocate for colonoscopies. By eradicating themes of stigma associated with these screenings, initiatives like Beran’s brand, Worldclass, aim to promote awareness and ensure that those who need colonoscopies can access them, regardless of financial situation.
Beran’s experience calls attention to the reality that many younger adults are diagnosed later in their disease progression. With a proactive approach to health, surveys indicate that many lives could be saved through early detection and treatment. Early screening empowers patients to catch abnormalities before they develop into cancer, offering a fighting chance against the disease.
The Importance of Second Opinions
Navigating cancer treatment can be daunting, and seeking a second opinion is crucial if there's any uncertainty regarding treatment plans. Beran emphasizes the significance of persistence in one’s healthcare journey. Listening to her instincts and seeking additional expert advice might have kept her from enduring longer with an ileostomy bag. Survivors often share that timely intervention can dramatically change outcomes, allowing patients to reclaim a sense of hope.
Living Life Beyond Cancer: Sara's Future
Now, three years cancer-free, Beran reflects on how her life has transformed. The fight against cancer instilled in her a profound understanding of what matters most: family. While her career in the fashion industry often pulled her focus, she now treasures the ordinary moments spent with loved ones.
To help others facing similar battles, Beran and her co-founder Brooks Bell direct a portion of Worldclass’s proceeds toward funding colonoscopies for those unable to afford the procedure. As they rally for a cause, their message is clear: colonoscopies are vital in preventing colorectal cancer. The discomfort often associated with the procedure pales in comparison to the long-term risks of untreated cancer.
Taking Action for Health: Next Steps for Readers
If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Early intervention can mean the difference between life and death. Here are several proactive steps you can take
- Know Your Symptoms: Be aware of signs such as blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, and persistent abdominal discomfort.
- Schedule Screenings: If you are 45 or older, schedule a colonoscopy. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, consult your doctor about earlier screenings.
- Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to seek multiple opinions. Trusting your gut feeling can steer you toward the best personalized care.
- Support Advocacy Groups: Follow initiatives like Worldclass that are actively working towards shattering the stigma around colon cancer while promoting screenings.
Conclusion: A Healthier Tomorrow Begins Today
The dramatic rise of colorectal cancer among younger adults highlights an urgent call for early screenings and preventive measures. As Sara Beran exemplifies, awareness, proactive health measures, and advocating for oneself can lead to life-saving changes. Don’t ignore your health—take the steps necessary for a healthier future, not just for yourself, but for your loved ones too. The battle against colorectal cancer is on, and together, we can make a difference.