I was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer at 38 after ignoring unexpected symptom that made me more attractive

Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14596467/weight-loss-mom-stage-3-colon-cancer-age-38.html

Summary

Shaedra Byrd, a 38-year-old Texas woman, was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer after initially mistaking weight loss and subtle bowel changes for positive signs. She now urges others to pay attention to their bodies and not ignore unusual symptoms, even if they seem minor. Early detection is crucial, as colon cancer is increasingly diagnosed in younger adults. Byrd emphasizes that she had no family history of the disease and didn't fit the typical profile. She is now dedicated to raising awareness about colon cancer and the importance of timely screening and diagnosis.

Full News Report

## Texas Woman, Diagnosed With Stage 3 Colon Cancer at 38, Warns Against Ignoring Unexpected Symptoms **HOUSTON, TX** – What started as a cascade of compliments about her seemingly effortless weight loss became a stark warning for Shaedra Byrd, a 38-year-old resident of Houston, Texas. After months of experiencing a subtle but persistent change in her bowel habits, accompanied by a noticeable, albeit initially welcomed, weight loss, Byrd was **diagnosed** with **stage 3 colon cancer**. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that even seemingly positive side effects can mask underlying health concerns and emphasizes the importance of early detection and not **ignoring** changes in your body. Byrd is now sharing her experience to encourage others to prioritize their health and consult with medical professionals about any unusual symptoms, no matter how seemingly benign they may appear. ### The Alluring Illusion: Weight Loss Hiding a Serious Illness Shaedra Byrd’s journey began subtly. Over several months, she noticed her clothes fitting looser, and the numbers on the scale gradually decreased. This was happening without any conscious effort on her part. As she recounts, friends and family began to remark on her slimmer figure, showering her with compliments. "I started getting so many compliments, and I enjoyed the praise," Byrd admits. "It's human nature to appreciate positive attention. I didn't question it much at first." However, alongside the compliments, Byrd was also experiencing subtle shifts in her bowel habits. While she dismissed these changes as stress or dietary fluctuations, the persistent nature of these issues should have served as a red flag. Unfortunately, the allure of the unsolicited praise overshadowed the growing concern within her. She attributed the changes in her stool to a shift in her work schedule and ate more fast food than usual. The reality was far more sinister than stress or a temporary dietary change. These seemingly unconnected symptoms were actually early indicators of **colon cancer**, a disease that, left unchecked, could prove fatal. ### The Turning Point: A Trip to the Doctor The turning point came when Byrd experienced persistent abdominal pain. The pain, coupled with an increasing sense of fatigue and noticing blood in her stool, prompted her to finally schedule an appointment with her primary care physician. "I knew something was wrong, but I was still hoping it was something minor," she explains. After discussing her symptoms and medical history, her doctor ordered a series of tests, including a colonoscopy. The results of the colonoscopy revealed the devastating truth: Byrd had **stage** 3 **colon** cancer. The news was a complete shock. "I was completely blindsided," Byrd recounts. "I didn't fit the typical profile. I was relatively young, and I didn't have any family history of the disease." ### Understanding Colon Cancer: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Symptoms Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. These cancers can start as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. While colon cancer is more commonly **diagnosed** in older adults, the incidence among younger individuals is on the rise. According to the American Cancer Society, the rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses in people younger than 50 has been increasing by about 1% to 2% per year since the mid-1990s. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing colon cancer, including: * **Age:** While the risk increases with age, younger individuals are not immune. * **Family History:** Having a family history of colon cancer or polyps significantly raises the risk. * **Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):** Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis increase the risk. * **Diet:** A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fiber can contribute to the development of colon cancer. * **Obesity:** Being overweight or obese increases the risk. * **Smoking:** Smoking is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including colon cancer. * **Alcohol Consumption:** Excessive alcohol consumption is also a risk factor. * **Race and Ethnicity:** African Americans have the highest rates of colorectal cancer in the United States. Common symptoms of colon cancer include: * A persistent change in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool. * Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool. * Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain. * A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely. * Weakness or fatigue. * Unexplained weight loss. * Nausea and vomiting. It's crucial to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult with a doctor for proper evaluation and diagnosis. ### Stage 3 Colon Cancer: Treatment and Prognosis **Stage** 3 colon cancer means that the cancer has spread beyond the lining of the colon and has reached nearby lymph nodes. While this stage is more advanced than earlier stages, it is still considered treatable. Treatment for **stage** 3 **colon cancer** typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. * **Surgery:** Surgery is usually performed to remove the cancerous tumor and any affected lymph nodes. * **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is used to kill any remaining cancer cells that may have spread beyond the colon. It is often administered after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. * **Radiation Therapy:** In some cases, radiation therapy may be used to target cancer cells in the colon area. The prognosis for individuals with **stage** 3 colon cancer depends on several factors, including the extent of the cancer spread, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of the treatment. With appropriate treatment, many individuals with stage 3 colon cancer can achieve long-term remission. ### The Importance of Early Detection and Screening Shaedra Byrd's story underscores the critical importance of early detection and screening for colon cancer. Regular screening can help detect polyps or early-stage cancer, allowing for timely treatment and improved outcomes. The American Cancer Society recommends that most individuals begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Screening options include colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and stool DNA test. Individuals with a higher risk of colon cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or inflammatory bowel disease, may need to begin screening earlier and undergo more frequent testing. ### A Call to Action: Byrd's Mission to Raise Awareness Now in remission, Shaedra Byrd is dedicating her time to raising awareness about colon cancer and the importance of early detection. She shares her story widely, emphasizing the need to listen to your body and seek medical attention for any unusual symptoms, regardless of how insignificant they may seem. She emphasizes not **ignoring** things like a subtle but persistent change in bowel habits, which can be an early sign of the disease. “My experience made me realize how little attention is paid to colon cancer in younger adults, and how often it is mistaken for other health issues” Byrd states. "I want to make sure that no one else goes through what I went through because they **ignored** the warning signs." By sharing her journey, Byrd hopes to empower others to take control of their health and prioritize early detection, ultimately saving lives.