A surgeon has shared an important piece of advice aimed at preventing colon cancer, especially as cases seem to be increasing in people under 50.

Dr. Parul Shukla, a colon and rectal surgeon at Northwell Health, revealed the key piece of guidance he gives to his patients.

This statement follows reports from Cancer Research UK, which highlighted a rise in bowel cancer rates among adults aged 20 to 50.

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer, also referred to as bowel cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. It is one of the most prevalent cancers in the UK and can occur at any part of the large bowel.

Additionally, colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer globally, according to the World Cancer Research Fund.

Advice from Dr. Shukla on preventing colon cancer

Dr. Shukla, a physician based in Westchester, New York, emphasized to the New York Post the importance of encouraging colonoscopies—screenings for colon cancer—before the age of 45, especially for those with a family history of the disease.

He advised having open conversations with loved ones, stating: “[This has] always been one of my requests to people: Please don’t be shy to discuss the findings of your colonoscopy with your children or with your siblings, because you might save a life.