A Los Angeles mother, Marisa Peters, 44, recounts how her concerning symptoms, including bleeding and changes in bowel habits, were repeatedly dismissed by doctors for years. Initially attributed to childbirth, her symptoms were signals of colorectal cancer.
Despite her symptoms, doctors overlooked the possibility of cancer, citing her age as atypical for colorectal cancer. However, statistics show a rising incidence in younger individuals. Peters' experience highlights a critical shift in the demographics of the disease, with younger patients increasingly presenting with late-stage diagnoses.
After five years of persistent, worsening symptoms, a gastroenterologist's examination and subsequent tests confirmed stage 3 colorectal cancer. Peters underwent extensive chemotherapy and radiation, followed by reconstructive surgery. She now advocates for earlier screening and intervention through her nonprofit, BE SEEN.
Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in adults under 50. Health agencies recommend screenings begin at age 45 for average-risk individuals. Peters emphasizes the importance of family health history and urges anyone with concerning symptoms to seek medical advice promptly.