Cases of colon cancer have been steadily increasing, and although the disease can present with a variety of symptoms, one man received his devastating diagnosis after experiencing just one.

Over the past 30 years, early-onset colorectal cancer has been on the rise, with cases nearly doubling since 1990.

Researchers have conducted numerous studies to understand the factors behind this surge, but pinpointing a definitive cause remains challenging.

What can cause colon cancer?

The rise in colon cancer cases has often been linked to lifestyle habits and dietary choices, though the exact cause remains unclear.

Some discussions have pointed to ultra-processed foods or a diet low in calcium as potential culprits.

According to a recent study, several contributing factors were identified. The most significant risk was insufficient calcium intake. Following that, alcohol consumption and obesity were also highlighted as key risk factors for developing the disease.

What’s one major symptom to look out for in colon cancer?

For Cameron Kalunian, a simple symptom led to a life-changing health crisis.

In an interview with UCLA Health, he shared his experience and the one warning sign that ultimately led to his colon cancer diagnosis.

Like many others, Cameron was part of a growing group of younger adults facing this disease—those under 35.

“I was 35 years old when I started seeing some blood in my stool,” he recalled.

Blood in the stool is often a serious warning sign of an underlying condition that requires immediate attention.

For many, additional symptoms eventually appear, but for Cameron, this was the only clue that something was wrong.