What are the silent signs of colon cancer?

Silent signs of colon cancer can be difficult to detect, and one of the most crucial indicators is occult blood in the stool. Occult blood refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through a stool test. It often signals bleeding in the digestive tract, which may be caused by colon polyps or cancer. While people may experience other subtle symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits or unexplained fatigue, the presence of occult blood is a particularly significant red flag because it can be present without any noticeable changes in how a person feels.

This hidden blood loss can gradually lead to anemia, which in turn may cause fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath. Because occult blood is not always accompanied by obvious symptoms like visible bleeding or pain, regular screening through tests like the FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) or FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) is essential, particularly for those at average or high risk for colon cancer. Detecting occult blood early through routine screening allows for prompt investigation and treatment, improving the chances of catching colon cancer in its early stages before it progresses.