Previously, it was believed that cancer develops at the age of 50 or 60, but now there is a worrying trend: the disease affects people as young as 30. Most patients seek medical attention too late, when the illness has already progressed significantly. Medical professionals note that the public is insufficiently aware of the signs of cancer, often mistaking them for ordinary ailments until the disease becomes serious.
Dr. Samir Khatri, chief director of the medical oncology department at Max Hospital, shared his observation. He noted that in recent years, very alarming changes have occurred in his outpatient practice. Previously, he thought that cancer was a disease of the elderly, but now young people aged 30 to 40 are increasingly becoming victims of this disease.
In this age group, people are so busy with careers, family, and daily affairs that they ignore minor health problems, dismissing them as fatigue or stress.
Dr. Samir explained that the number of cases of stomach and intestinal cancer among young people is growing. The initial signs of these diseases are often mistakenly attributed to gas or heartburn. However, if a person's toilet habits suddenly change, or if constipation or diarrhea persists, or if blood appears in the stool, this is not normal.
It is also important not to ignore constant pain in any part of the body that does not go away even after taking regular painkillers, prolonged low-grade fever, or a cough lasting weeks, especially if blood is present in the sputum. These signals require close attention.
Although the thought of cancer causes natural concern, it is important to understand that not every tumor or pain is cancer. If any unusual condition persists for more than two or three weeks, one should consult a specialist rather than trying to self-diagnose via the internet. With early detection at age 30, treatment is fully possible.
Symptoms that should not be ignored include: unexplained weight loss without dieting, constant fatigue, general weakness, and the presence of a lump in the body that does not disappear.