Once thought of as a disease predominantly affecting older adults, colorectal cancer is now steadily creeping into younger age groups — and it’s raising red flags across the medical community. In recent years, more young adults under 50 are being diagnosed with this potentially deadly cancer, often at later stages. While overall colorectal cancer rates have declined due to better screening and awareness, a concerning trend has emerged: early-onset colorectal cancer is rising, and it’s not slowing down.

Doctors and researchers are urging younger individuals to take gastrointestinal symptoms seriously and advocate for screenings. Because when it comes to colorectal cancer, early detection isn’t just a best practice — it’s a life-saver.

Why Is This Happening?

While scientists haven’t pinpointed a single cause behind the increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults, several lifestyle-related factors are under scrutiny. Diets high in red and processed meats, low fibre intake, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are all linked to increased colorectal cancer risk. Environmental exposures and even gut microbiome imbalances may also play a role.

Genetics contribute in some cases, but many young patients have no family history of the disease, leaving experts puzzled and concerned. What’s clear is that colorectal cancer is no longer just an “older person’s disease,” and that mindset needs to change fast.

Real Stories Underscore the Urgency

Behind the statistics are real people whose lives were upended by unexpected diagnoses. Sydney Stoner, a 27-year-old from Arkansas, had to lie about seeing blood in her stool to convince her doctors to order a colonoscopy. That decision may have saved her life. She was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. After four years of treatment, her cancer is now considered stable.

In another case, Angelica McFall, a 48-year-old Nebraska woman with no symptoms or family history, was shocked to learn she had stage 3 colon cancer after her first routine colonoscopy. Thanks to timely intervention, she is now cancer-free and passionately encourages others to get screened.

William Lindley, 38, initially brushed off his symptoms as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It wasn’t until a colonoscopy revealed stage 4 colon cancer that he realised the danger of ignoring persistent stomach issues. He’s now urging others to pay closer attention to what their bodies are telling them.

Six Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Colorectal cancer can be sneaky, often developing without noticeable symptoms until it’s already in advanced stages. However, six warning signs can serve as potential red flags:

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few days)

• Blood in the stool (bright red or dark tarry stools)

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent fatigue or weakness

• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially in combination, consult a doctor immediately.

Screenings Save Lives

Colonoscopies remain the most effective method for detecting colorectal cancer. The procedure allows doctors not only to identify cancerous growths but to remove precancerous polyps before they become dangerous. Despite being invasive, colonoscopies are considered the gold standard for a reason — they can prevent cancer from developing.

Other screening options include stool-based tests, which can be completed at home and detect blood or abnormal DNA in the stool. There are also blood-based tests and imaging scans, but these should often be followed up by a colonoscopy if results indicate something abnormal.

Dr. Cindy Kin, a surgeon at Stanford Health Care, emphasises the importance of screening: “Most polyps and cancers are not symptomatic, so don’t wait for symptoms before getting checked out.”

When to Get Screened

The American Cancer Society recommends beginning regular colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. However, those with a family history of colorectal cancer or conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should consider starting earlier. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine a plan tailored to your personal risk profile.

For people without symptoms or family history, screenings are typically recommended every 10 years. However, this interval may be shortened based on individual risk factors or if polyps are found during the procedure.

The Medical Community Is Taking Note

Healthcare providers are being urged to listen more carefully to younger patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms — especially as the old assumptions about age and risk no longer hold. Dr. Babak Firoozi, a gastroenterologist in California, warns, “Any concerning symptoms should be addressed, regardless of age.”

Dr. Anton Bilchik, a surgical oncologist, echoes this call to action: “Colon cancer is now a young person’s disease. Don’t dismiss blood in the stool or unexpected weight loss as something minor.”

A Curable Cancer — If Caught Early

The key message from experts is this: colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. But survival rates drop sharply as the disease progresses, underscoring the urgency of early screening and self-advocacy.

Dr. Katherine Van Loon, an oncologist at UCSF, puts it bluntly: “This is a cancer that is entirely curable if we catch it early. Pay attention to your body and be prepared to self-advocate.”

Final Thoughts

Colorectal cancer is no longer a disease confined to older generations. Its silent march into younger demographics demands awareness, vigilance, and action. Whether it’s through regular screenings, recognising symptoms, or simply trusting your gut when something feels off — your health could depend on it.

Don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t assume you’re too young. Get screened, speak up, and encourage those around you to do the same. Because when it comes to colorectal cancer, catching it early can mean the difference between life and death.

The debate around fluoride in public water supplies has resurfaced after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposed a nationwide ban on fluoridation. Citing concerns about potential neurotoxic effects in children, Kennedy’s proposal comes amidst growing global scrutiny over fluoride exposure. While his stance has raised questions and reignited concerns, most health experts continue to support fluoridated water at current U.S. levels, pointing to decades of evidence demonstrating its role in promoting dental health.

Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has been added to public water systems in the United States since the mid-1940s to reduce tooth decay, especially in communities with limited access to dental care. Currently, the recommended level of fluoride in drinking water stands at 0.7 milligrams per litre, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This level, experts say, balances the dental benefits of fluoride with the risk of side effects like dental fluorosis.

Kennedy’s call for a ban follows Utah’s recent decision to become the first U.S. state to prohibit fluoride in public water supplies. In parallel, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has committed to reviewing new scientific findings related to fluoride safety, signalling potential shifts in future policy.

Though Kennedy cannot enforce a federal ban on fluoride in water, he can influence public health guidelines through agencies like the CDC or push for the EPA to adjust the maximum allowed levels. His position is partly fuelled by recent studies suggesting that high fluoride exposure may be linked to lower IQ levels in children, particularly in non-U.S. countries with elevated fluoride levels.

A recent study published in JAMA Paediatrics found an association between high fluoride levels and diminished IQ scores in children from countries like China and India, where water fluoride levels often exceed international guidelines. However, experts caution against extrapolating those findings to the U.S. context.

Dr. Danelle Fisher, a paediatrician based in California, emphasised the importance of keeping public reaction grounded in facts. “We need to reassure people that the current fluoride levels in U.S. water are safe,” she said. “Children benefit from correctly fluoridated water, especially when combined with fluoridated toothpaste.”

Other experts agree, underscoring the distinction between systemic exposure (like drinking fluoridated water) and localised use (like brushing with fluoride toothpaste). Dr. Inderpal Randhawa, a paediatric pulmonologist, acknowledged potential health concerns tied to long-term fluoride exposure, including effects on the thyroid, bones, and other organs. However, he noted that fluoridation might still be beneficial in areas with limited access to dental services.

Despite these reassurances, the body of research on fluoride is far from conclusive. Critics like Dr. Bruce Lanphear of Simon Fraser University argue that the evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of fluoridated water isn’t as robust as once believed. Lanphear co-authored an editorial accompanying the JAMA Paediatrics study and advocates for removing fluoride from drinking water, citing possible neurodevelopmental risks and insufficient modern research supporting systemic fluoridation.

He points to a 2024 Cochrane Review that found only modest benefits of water fluoridation on reducing cavities—suggesting a potential reduction of only a few percent. “The evidence about the effectiveness of water fluoridation has never been particularly rigorous,” Lanphear said. “And now we’re seeing potential harms.”

Dental fluorosis—white or brown staining on teeth caused by excessive fluoride—has become more common in U.S. children over recent decades, prompting health agencies to lower the recommended fluoride level in water from 1.2 mg/L to the current 0.7 mg/L. While fluorosis is largely cosmetic, its increasing prevalence has added to concerns about overexposure.

Yet, the potential risks must be weighed against the historical benefits. Before fluoridation became widespread, dental decay was rampant in children, often leading to serious infections and complications. “We’ve seen what happens without fluoride,” Dr. Fisher said. “Dental problems don’t just stop at the mouth. They can affect the whole body and even cause life-threatening infections.”

Dr. Randhawa echoed the need for context, advocating for a more nuanced approach. In areas with high-quality dental infrastructure and regular access to fluoride-based products, water fluoridation might be unnecessary. In underserved communities, however, fluoridated water remains a vital public health tool.

Ultimately, both sides of the fluoride debate agree on one thing: more research is needed. Experts are calling for long-term studies conducted in the U.S. that evaluate fluoride exposure levels and their potential impacts on children’s health—including cognitive development. Dr. Fisher urged for future research that’s specific to American populations and not based solely on international data.

“If we find out that the current fluoride levels are too high or too low, we can make adjustments,” she said. “But right now, the existing levels are considered safe and beneficial.”

As public health officials, researchers, and concerned citizens continue to examine fluoride’s role in water systems, it’s clear that a balanced, science-driven approach is essential. Panic or misinformation, experts warn, could undermine decades of progress in public dental health.

“Fluoride is not something to be feared when used appropriately,” Dr. Fisher concluded. “We need to stay informed, support high-quality research, and do what’s best for our children—both for their teeth and their overall well-being.”

Can something as simple as a daily probiotic supplement influence how we feel emotionally? A new clinical trial is shedding light on the increasingly popular idea that our gut health may play a significant role in our mental well-being — even for people who aren’t struggling with a diagnosed mental health condition.

Published in npj Mental Health Research on April 9, this study has captured attention for its intriguing findings: probiotics may help reduce negative moods, even in generally healthy young adults. Researchers found that after just two weeks of probiotic use, participants began to experience emotional improvements — and by the end of four weeks, their negative mood was still on a positive trajectory.

This research builds on the growing interest in the gut-brain axis — the intricate communication system between our digestive tract and our brain. Scientists now believe that this system may influence everything from our mood and stress response to our behavior and cognitive function.

The Science Behind the Mood Shift

Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the study involved 88 healthy participants with an average age of 22. These individuals did not have depression, were not overweight, and avoided excessive alcohol or drug use — which made them ideal candidates for assessing how probiotics affect people without obvious health concerns.

Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a multispecies probiotic supplement or a placebo daily for 28 days. The probiotic blend contained a mix of nine strains, including Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Lactococcus species. The daily dose was delivered in a 2-gram sachet dissolved in lukewarm water.

To measure outcomes, researchers used standard psychological questionnaires assessing anxiety, depression, worry, and general emotional states. Surprisingly, these traditional tools detected only minor differences between the placebo and probiotic groups.

However, where things got interesting was in the daily mood tracking. Participants recorded their emotional state each day — and those taking probiotics began reporting fewer negative emotions around the two-week mark. Meanwhile, the placebo group experienced no significant change.

“This is the first study to monitor daily mood shifts in response to probiotics,” said Dr. Katerina Johnson, lead author and research associate at Oxford. “That approach gave us a much clearer picture of how probiotics can influence emotion over time — something that standard tests may miss.”

Why the Gut Matters for Mental Health

So how does this work? The gut is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiome. This community plays a key role in digestion, immune function, and — crucially — the production of neurotransmitters. In fact, about 95% of the body’s serotonin, a chemical that regulates mood, is produced in the gut.

Improving gut health through probiotics may help balance these neurotransmitters and reduce stress-related inflammation. Although more research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms, this study reinforces the idea that gut health may be a crucial — and often overlooked — factor in emotional well-being.

Dr. Johnson adds, “Rather than splitting emotional states into neat categories like anxiety or depression, our approach of asking participants how positive or negative they felt gave us a more nuanced understanding of their emotional shifts.”

Interestingly, the probiotics did not seem to enhance positive mood — only reduce negative mood. That suggests these supplements may have a calming effect, rather than boosting overall euphoria or energy.

Who Benefits Most?

The researchers also observed that certain personality traits may make people more responsive to probiotic treatment. Participants who demonstrated higher levels of risk aversion at the start of the study experienced the most pronounced improvements in mood.

This discovery hints at a future where personalized probiotic therapies could be developed based on individual psychological profiles, though much more investigation is needed before that becomes a reality.

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A Helpful Addition — Not a Replacement

Mental health professionals are cautiously optimistic about these findings, while emphasizing that probiotics are not a replacement for therapy or medication, especially for those dealing with clinical depression or anxiety.

“This study shows promise for supporting mental health through the gut,” said Dr. Lisa Durette, chair of psychiatry at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “But it’s not a substitute for professional treatment when needed.”

Durette notes that many patients don’t respond well to antidepressants or find that these medications dull their emotional range. In contrast, she finds it intriguing that the probiotic users didn’t report this kind of emotional blunting — they simply felt less weighed down by negative feelings.

Likewise, Dr. Christoph Thaiss, a Stanford University researcher not involved in the study, echoed this sentiment. “Probiotics might offer a supportive role in the broader picture of mental health, but they aren’t subject to the same regulatory scrutiny as pharmaceutical drugs,” he said.

That’s why both Durette and Thaiss advocate for a holistic approach to mental wellness — one that combines medical treatment, therapy, diet, lifestyle habits, and, when appropriate, supplementation with probiotics or prebiotics.

Food for Thought: Should You Try Probiotics?

While this study doesn’t suggest that probiotics will work for everyone, it adds to a growing body of evidence that these beneficial bacteria may play a meaningful role in mood regulation — especially in generally healthy people seeking natural mood support.

If you’re considering adding probiotics to your wellness routine, it’s always best to speak with a healthcare provider first. Look for reputable brands that contain well-researched strains, and be patient — as this study shows, results may take a couple of weeks to emerge.

In the meantime, focusing on a gut-friendly lifestyle — including a balanced diet rich in fiber and fermented foods, regular physical activity, stress management, and sufficient sleep — can also contribute to better gut and brain health.

As science continues to explore the intricate ties between the gut and the mind, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: how we nourish our body may also help shape how we feel. And in a world that often feels emotionally overwhelming, that’s a message worth digesting.

Kenan Thompson has spent the better part of his life bringing joy and laughter to millions. From his early days on All That and Kenan & Kel to becoming Saturday Night Live‘s longest-running cast member, Thompson has earned his place as a comedic icon. But behind the punchlines and sketches lies a more serious side of his life — one he’s opening up about for the first time.

The beloved comedian is now shining a spotlight on a condition that affects millions but is often misunderstood: gastroesophageal reflux disease, more commonly known as GERD.

“GERD is no joke. It’s uncomfortable,” Thompson told Healthline, sharing his personal journey with the chronic digestive disorder.

A Diagnosis Years in the Making

For years, Thompson lived with persistent heartburn and discomfort, symptoms that became increasingly difficult to ignore. In his mid-30s, what began as the occasional night of indigestion evolved into restless nights, vocal strain, and physical fatigue — a tough combination for someone whose job depends on timing, energy, and voice projection.

“I’ve had nights where I couldn’t sleep and then had to perform the next day,” he said. “It messes with your energy and your confidence.”

Even simple tasks like singing during a sketch could lead to hoarseness or a lost voice, something he never expected to happen just from performing. Thompson began to realize there was more at play than just a few bad food choices.

But as many with GERD can relate, it wasn’t easy to connect the dots. He often brushed off flare-ups, attributing them to something spicy or overly acidic he’d eaten — not recognizing the larger pattern until the symptoms became impossible to ignore.

From Pizza to Prescription

Thompson’s diet, like many Americans’, included frequent indulgences in pizza and soda — two known triggers for reflux. Over time, he started to see a direct correlation between what he ate and how he felt.

“I would have flareup moments and not really understand what was necessarily going on or just not putting two and two together that I was doing this to myself,” he admitted.

Eventually, in his early 40s, Thompson was diagnosed with non-erosive GERD, a subtype of the condition that doesn’t damage the esophagus but causes many of the same symptoms as erosive GERD, such as heartburn, chest discomfort, and chronic throat irritation.

After years of relying on over-the-counter remedies that provided only short-term relief, his doctor prescribed Voquezna (vonoprazan) — a newer treatment that finally gave him a handle on the condition.

“It was almost like I couldn’t eat pizza without having a no-sleep night,” Thompson joked. “And you can’t live like that. I’ve got to eat my pizza!”

Now, with his symptoms under control, Thompson feels more empowered to manage his condition without fear of flare-ups. Though he still avoids some trigger foods, he no longer lives in fear of occasional indulgences — thanks to having the right treatment plan and understanding what works for his body.

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A Platform for Awareness

As part of the “GERD IS NO JOKE” campaign, Thompson is using his voice not for punchlines — but for purpose. By sharing his story, he hopes to encourage others who might be silently suffering to seek help, find answers, and make changes that could improve their lives.

“If I can change one life, great. If it’s more based on the following that I have, even better,” he said. “It will definitely help me sleep at night knowing I helped someone else sleep better too.”

And while no skits are confirmed yet, Thompson isn’t ruling out the possibility of bringing GERD to the comedy stage in the future.

“You never know — I might just have to do the Weekend Update version of myself,” he teased.

Food, Lifestyle, and GERD: What Helps?

Managing GERD, experts say, is a personalized process. There’s no universal food plan, but there are some common culprits that can trigger symptoms. According to Anna Beery, a registered dietitian nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, acidic foods, carbonated drinks, chocolate, coffee, peppermint, and alcohol are among the most frequent offenders.

She also recommends keeping a food journal to track symptoms and identify personal triggers. Alongside dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments can also make a significant difference — like eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding lying down shortly after eating, and elevating the head during sleep.

“Better sleep in general may decrease GERD,” Beery explained.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, legumes, olive oil, and lean proteins, has also shown promise in managing GERD. Beery adds that maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can reduce symptoms and improve overall digestive health.

Finding Relief and Paying It Forward

For Thompson, the journey from symptom confusion to clarity has been both challenging and enlightening. Through trial, error, and finally a proper diagnosis, he’s found relief — and a mission to help others do the same.

His message is clear: GERD might be common, but it’s not something to brush off. And when someone like Kenan Thompson — a man who makes a living off making us laugh — tells you something’s no joke, it’s worth listening.

Whether through awareness campaigns or maybe even a future SNL skit, Thompson’s candidness is already breaking the silence around GERD — one laugh, and one real talk moment, at a time.

Comedian, satirist, and long-time fitness enthusiast Cyrus Broacha has never been one to shy away from the spotlight—but lately, it’s not his humour that’s making waves. His appearance, particularly his leaner, more muscular frame, has prompted fans and followers to question if he’s gone through a dramatic physical transformation. But Broacha is quick to clarify: “There hasn’t been one.”

“I’ve looked like that for years,” he insists, responding to viral chatter over a recent photo. “Maybe it was photoshopped. I’ve been training for years, and this is how I look.”

In many ways, Broacha is breaking stereotypes—not just about ageing or fitness, but also about what it means to be dedicated to a healthy lifestyle without making it a spectacle. The truth is, he’s always been deeply committed to weight training, going as far as setting up a personal gym during the Covid-19 lockdown. “I got a barbell, a squat rack, a bench, and 340 pounds of weight,” he revealed on his podcast with fitness icon Bani J. “I’ve always loved training. My shape is better, but my size… could be better.”

The Routine: Fast, Lift, Eat

Cyrus’ workout style is unique and rooted in consistency. He prefers “power building”—a hybrid of bodybuilding and powerlifting—which he says keeps things exciting. His sessions are quick and focused, and he doesn’t bother with cardio. “I don’t do cardio. I don’t walk,” he told actor Rohit Roy in another conversation. Despite that, he’s currently down to 84 kg (about 187 pounds), a weight he seems content with.

One key aspect of his fitness routine is fasting. “I fast from 7 pm to 7 am. I work out fasted but eat immediately after,” he said. The first thing to hit his system post-workout? Two protein shakes, followed by eggs. “You can’t go too extreme with diets,” he noted. “I eat well in the first half of the day and avoid carbs.”

He doesn’t count macros religiously but focuses on eating clean, protein-rich meals. This pragmatic approach to fitness—built on habits rather than fads—has been the cornerstone of his regime.

Not a New Passion

For those who’ve followed his career from his MTV days in the ‘90s, the shift in perception can be jarring. Known then for his large frame and boisterous energy, his current look may appear like a transformation—but Cyrus argues it’s simply a case of perspective. “I’ve always worked out. My love for bodybuilding started young—Arnold Schwarzenegger’s books were my bible.”

This isn’t just about appearances for him. “Bodybuilding builds character,” he says. “Within five minutes, you can tell who’s serious. Most guys just do bicep curls and leave. They don’t know how to squat, deadlift, or row. I don’t have many gifts in life, but I know I wouldn’t do something I’m not invested in.”

His current routine, especially post-lockdown, includes body-weight movements and compound lifts. “I train a muscle group once a week now, but I’d prefer to do it twice. I don’t have access to everything, but I make do.”

Cyrus Broacha on Fitness, Diet, and the Myth of His

Discipline, Not Deprivation

Cyrus may have a reputation for being carefree, but he insists that perception doesn’t match reality. “I’m extremely disciplined. I love potato chips—who doesn’t? But I don’t indulge unnecessarily. I don’t even drink.”

He adds that genetics play a role in his appearance. “I’ve got a round face and chubby build, but that’s just me. The heaviest I’ve ever been was 96 kilos, and now I’m 91. Ideally, I’d like to be 93.”

Cardio? No Thanks

Broacha’s controversial fitness take? Cardio is overrated—at least for Indian men. “They’re already skinny with fat in the wrong places. And cardio just eats away the little muscle they do have,” he says, half-joking, half-serious. “Walking is not exercise. You might as well walk your dog—it’s more purposeful.”

While his statements may spark debate, his underlying message is clear: strength training builds real, sustainable fitness. He believes the average gym-goer lacks passion. “Weightlifting demands an attitude like that of a warrior. Most guys come in, go through the motions, and leave.”

Expert Views: Balance Matters

Fitness experts agree that discipline and strength training are critical—but advocate a more balanced approach. Tarundeep Singh Rekhi, a fitness professional, advises combining strength training with HIIT for optimal results. “Tracking your macros, ensuring adequate protein, and including variety is important. It’s not one-size-fits-all.”

Dr. HP Bharathi from Jindal Naturecure Institute adds that food tracking can help avoid overeating and provide insights into eating patterns. “Balanced, thoughtful nutrition combined with discipline is the key.”

The Final Word: Fitness Is Personal

For Cyrus, fitness is more than a phase—it’s a lifelong love affair. He’s aware of public perception, but it doesn’t faze him. “People think I’ve suddenly changed. But I’ve always been like this. Maybe it’s the lighting,” he quips.

Whether it’s lifting weights, sticking to a fasted schedule, or keeping eggs on standby, Broacha embodies a rare, no-nonsense approach to fitness. He’s not trying to be a fitness influencer or sell a transformation story. He’s simply doing what he loves—and maybe, inspiring a few laughs and lifts along the way.