For about a year, 26-year-old Mariana Tata lived with on-and-off bloating and what she assumed were hemorrhoids. She chalked it up to her menstrual cycle, stress, and the kind of digestive discomfort many of us quietly tolerate. When she finally saw a doctor, she learned the truth: stage 4 colon cancer.


Her story, recently reported by Business Insider, is unsettling—but it’s also a powerful reminder that common symptoms aren’t always “just normal,” especially when they linger or change. In this guide, we’ll walk through what happened to Mariana, what science says about colon cancer in young adults, and practical steps you can take to listen to your body, talk to your doctor, and push for answers when something feels off.


Young woman sitting on a couch, holding her abdomen as if experiencing bloating or discomfort
Persistent bloating and rectal discomfort can feel easy to dismiss—but sometimes they’re an early warning sign that deserves a closer look. (Image: Business Insider report on Mariana Tata)

Mariana’s Story: From “Just Bloating” to Stage 4 Colon Cancer

According to Business Insider’s reporting, Mariana noticed:

  • Recurring bloating that she linked to her menstrual cycle
  • Rectal discomfort she thought was hemorrhoids
  • Subtle digestive changes over time

None of these on their own screamed “cancer.” Many of her friends had digestive conditions such as Crohn’s disease; others simply had “sensitive stomachs.” It was easy for her to assume the same—and easy for symptoms to blend into everyday life.


“I just thought this is what being a woman in her 20s feels like. I never imagined it could be stage 4 cancer.”

Eventually, as symptoms persisted and worsened, she sought care and underwent testing. The diagnosis was jarring: stage 4 colon cancer, meaning it had already spread beyond the colon. By the time she had clear answers, the disease was advanced.



Colon Cancer in Your 20s and 30s: Why We’re Seeing More Cases

Colon and rectal cancers (together called colorectal cancer) were once considered diseases of older adults. Screening in many countries historically started at age 50. But in the last decade, researchers have seen a worrying rise in cases among people under 50.


In response to growing evidence, several expert groups, including the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, now recommend routine colon cancer screening starting at age 45 for people at average risk. Some individuals with strong family histories or genetic syndromes are advised to start even earlier.


“We’re seeing more colorectal cancer in younger adults, and they’re often diagnosed at later stages. Awareness of early symptoms is critical.”
— Gastroenterologist commentary summarized from recent clinical reviews

Researchers are still studying why early-onset colon cancer is rising. Likely contributors include:

  • Dietary patterns low in fiber and high in processed foods
  • More sedentary lifestyles
  • Changes in the gut microbiome
  • Obesity and metabolic health factors
  • Environmental and genetic influences we don’t fully understand yet

Early-onset colon cancer is increasing, which is why guidelines now recommend screening beginning at age 45 for most adults. (Image: Pexels)

Subtle Colon Cancer Symptoms: What to Watch For

Symptoms of colon cancer can overlap with many benign conditions, which is part of why young adults—and sometimes even clinicians—may dismiss them at first. The goal isn’t to scare you, but to help you notice patterns that deserve follow-up.


Common symptoms that warrant attention

  • Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks (diarrhea, constipation, or narrower stools)
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool (bright red or dark, tarry stools)
  • Unexplained, persistent bloating or cramping
  • Feeling that you haven’t fully emptied your bowels after going
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Ongoing fatigue not explained by stress, sleep, or known conditions
  • Iron-deficiency anemia on blood tests without a clear cause


Many people—especially people who menstruate—are used to GI changes around their periods, bloating, and fatigue. The key difference is:

  • Are the symptoms new or different for you?
  • Do they persist beyond your usual cycle pattern?
  • Are they getting gradually worse over months?

When to See a Doctor About Bloating, Hemorrhoids, or Digestive Changes

You don’t need to run to the emergency room for every episode of gas or constipation. But certain patterns are worth booking an appointment with a primary care clinician or gastroenterologist.


Red-flag signs that deserve prompt evaluation

  1. Rectal bleeding that is:
    • Recurrent or heavy
    • Accompanied by pain, weight loss, or fatigue
    • Dark and tarry (which can suggest bleeding higher up)
  2. Persistent change in bowel habits (more than 2–4 weeks)
  3. Abdominal pain or bloating that is ongoing, improving only briefly, or disturbing sleep
  4. Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
  5. Iron-deficiency anemia or unexplained fatigue
  6. Family history of colon cancer or advanced polyps, especially at a young age

Young woman talking to a healthcare professional in a clinic setting
Speaking up about “embarrassing” symptoms like rectal bleeding or bowel changes can feel uncomfortable—but it can also be lifesaving. (Image: Pexels)


How Colon Cancer Is Diagnosed: From Symptoms to Answers

If your clinician is concerned, they may recommend a stepwise evaluation. This doesn’t mean they think you have cancer; it means they’re being thorough.


Typical diagnostic steps

  1. Detailed history and physical exam
    • Questions about bowel habits, pain, diet, medications, and family history
    • Possibly a rectal exam to look for hemorrhoids, fissures, or masses
  2. Lab tests
    • Blood tests to check for anemia, inflammation, or other issues
    • Sometimes stool tests to look for hidden blood or markers
  3. Imaging and endoscopy
    • Colonoscopy: a camera examines the colon and rectum; polyps or suspicious areas can be biopsied
    • In some cases, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT scan, or MRI

Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard both for diagnosing colon cancer and for preventing it by removing polyps before they turn into cancer. While the idea can be intimidating, many people say the anticipation is worse than the procedure itself.


“Screening colonoscopy has been shown to reduce both the incidence of colorectal cancer and deaths from the disease, especially when started at guideline-recommended ages.”
— Summary of findings from major gastroenterology societies

Why Young Adults Get Dismissed—and How to Advocate for Yourself

Many people in their 20s and 30s hear some version of, “You’re too young for colon cancer.” While colon cancer is still less common at this age, “less common” doesn’t mean “impossible.”


Common barriers

  • Embarrassment about discussing bowel movements or rectal bleeding
  • Busy schedules and putting health last on the to-do list
  • Assumptions that symptoms are just hemorrhoids, IBS, or period-related
  • Healthcare access issues (insurance, transportation, cost, or long wait times)

Practical self-advocacy steps

  1. Track your symptoms
    • Note when they started, how often they occur, what they feel like, and what makes them better or worse.
  2. Use clear language with your clinician
    • Instead of “my stomach is weird,” say “I’ve had daily bloating for 3 months and blood in my stool twice a week.”
  3. Share your concerns honestly
    • It’s okay to say, “I know I’m young, but I’m really worried about colon cancer because my symptoms keep getting worse.”
  4. Ask what the follow-up plan is
    • If the initial answer is “Let’s watch and wait,” ask when you should return and what would trigger further testing.
  5. Seek a second opinion
    • If you feel your concerns aren’t being heard or your symptoms are progressing, another perspective can be valuable.


Evidence-Based Ways to Lower Your Colon Cancer Risk

No lifestyle change can guarantee that you’ll never develop colon cancer, and people like Mariana can do “everything right” and still be diagnosed. That said, research consistently shows that certain habits are linked with lower risk.


Everyday steps that support colon health

  • Eat more fiber-rich foods
    • Fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains, nuts, and seeds
  • Limit processed and red meats
    • High intake of processed meats (like bacon, sausages, deli meats) is linked with higher colorectal cancer risk in large studies.
  • Move your body regularly
    • Even brisk walking most days supports healthy digestion and overall metabolic health.
  • Aim for a healthy weight range
    • Obesity and central fat distribution are associated with increased colon cancer risk.
  • Moderate alcohol and avoid smoking
    • Both heavy drinking and smoking have been linked to colorectal cancer risk in multiple epidemiologic studies.
  • Stay up-to-date with screenings
    • Talk with your clinician about when you should start screening based on your age, sex, family history, and health conditions.

Healthy meal with vegetables, grains, and legumes arranged on a table
A fiber-rich eating pattern with plenty of plants is consistently linked with better digestive and overall health. (Image: Pexels)


From Dismissing Symptoms to Taking Action: A Before-and-After Mindset Shift

One of the most powerful lessons from stories like Mariana’s is the mindset shift they inspire. Here’s how many people move from ignoring their symptoms to advocating for themselves.


How your approach to symptoms can change
Before After
“It’s just period bloating, I’ll wait it out.” “This bloating has lasted months and feels different—I’ll bring it up with my doctor.”
“It’s embarrassing to talk about poop or rectal pain.” “My doctor has seen this a thousand times; my comfort is less important than my health.”
“I’m too young for anything serious.” “It’s probably benign—but I deserve to rule out serious causes.”
“The first doctor said it’s nothing, so I’ll drop it.” “My symptoms are getting worse; I’m going to ask for further testing or a second opinion.”

Key Takeaways from Mariana’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Diagnosis

Stories like Mariana Tata’s are difficult to read—but they can also be turning points in how we care for ourselves and the people we love.


  • Persistent symptoms are worth attention. Long-lasting bloating, rectal bleeding, or bowel changes shouldn’t be brushed off.
  • Age is not a guarantee of protection. Colon cancer remains less common in young adults but is increasingly recognized in people under 50.
  • Self-advocacy matters. Tracking symptoms, asking clear questions, and seeking second opinions can shorten the time to an accurate diagnosis.
  • Prevention and screening save lives. Lifestyle changes and guideline-based screening help catch problems earlier, when they’re more treatable.
  • Compassion is essential. If someone close to you shares health worries, take them seriously and encourage them to seek care.

Supportive friends sitting together, one person comforting another
Sharing stories and supporting each other in seeking care can make the difference between late and early diagnosis. (Image: Pexels)

What You Can Do Today

If parts of your own story echo Mariana’s—maybe you’ve been feeling bloated for months, seeing blood occasionally, or noticing subtle digestive changes—this is your gentle nudge to pay attention.


Simple next steps

  1. Write down your symptoms from the last 1–3 months.
  2. Schedule an appointment with your primary care clinician or a gastroenterologist.
  3. Bring your notes and be as specific as possible about what you’ve noticed.
  4. Ask directly: “Do I need any tests to rule out colon or rectal cancer?”
  5. Share this information with a friend or family member who tends to push their symptoms aside.


You know your body better than anyone else. If something doesn’t feel right, you’re not being dramatic or difficult by asking for answers—you’re taking your health seriously. And that’s exactly what you deserve.