Colon cancer is often called the “silent killer” because its early symptoms can be mild and easily dismissed. But one brave woman, Radwah Oda, a single mother from Texas, has stepped forward to share her battle with stage four colon cancer after ignoring warning signs for far too long.
Her story went viral on TikTok, gaining over 2.3 million views, as she detailed the five overlooked symptoms that many people ignore. Now, she’s urging others to pay attention to their bodies and take their health seriously.
1. Changes in Stool: A Subtle but Critical Sign
One of the first symptoms Radwah noticed was a change in her stool shape. Her bowel movements became pencil-thin, something she initially brushed off as mild constipation.
A sudden change in stool shape or consistency can be a red flag. If your stool is frequently thin, ribbon-like, or different from normal, it could indicate a blockage in the colon, which is often caused by a tumor.
Other stool-related symptoms to watch for:
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- Narrow or ribbon-shaped stool
- A feeling of incomplete bowel movements
If these symptoms last more than a few days, it’s time to consult a doctor.
2. Blood in Stool: Not Just Hemorrhoids
Radwah also noticed small amounts of blood in her stool. She assumed it was from hemorrhoids, which is a common mistake. Many people experience occasional rectal bleeding and dismiss it.
But bloody stools—whether bright red or dark and tarry—could be a sign of colon cancer. It’s crucial to get it checked out, especially if it happens more than once.
Signs of concern:
- Bright red blood (could indicate bleeding from the rectum or lower colon)
- Dark, tarry stool (suggests bleeding higher up in the digestive tract)
- Frequent blood-streaked stools
Never ignore blood in your stool—seek medical attention immediately.
3. Unexplained Pain: Don’t Brush It Off
Abdominal pain is a well-known symptom of cancer, but with colon cancer, the pain isn’t always in the abdomen. Radwah experienced pain below her right breast, which she mistakenly blamed on an ill-fitting bra.
In reality, the pain was an indication that colon cancer had already spread to her liver.
Signs that your pain could be serious:
- Persistent abdominal cramping
- Unexplained lower back pain
- Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen (could indicate liver involvement)
If you experience persistent or unusual pain, don’t ignore it—your body is trying to tell you something.
4. Chronic Fatigue: When Rest Isn’t Enough
Feeling tired all the time? Radwah found herself exhausted despite getting enough rest. She started needing multiple naps a day, yet nothing helped her energy levels.
This kind of chronic fatigue is common in colon cancer patients because the disease drains the body’s resources and can cause internal bleeding, leading to anemia.
Signs of concern:
- Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest
- Shortness of breath with minor activities
- Pale skin (a sign of anemia)
If you feel exhausted without explanation, consult a doctor. It could be more than just burnout.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
Another sign Radwah ignored was her sudden, unexplained weight loss. She lost weight rapidly and assumed it was due to a stomach bug.
Unexpected weight loss—especially without diet or exercise changes—is a major red flag for cancer. A loss of appetite or feeling full quickly can also indicate a tumor blocking the digestive tract.
Watch for:
- Losing weight without trying
- Feeling full after small meals
- Persistent nausea or loss of appetite
The Rise of Colon Cancer in Younger Adults
For years, colon cancer was considered a disease that mainly affected older adults. But new research shows that rates are rising in people under 50.
Many young people dismiss symptoms because they don’t believe they’re at risk. This delay in diagnosis means that by the time colon cancer is detected, it’s often at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult.
Doctors urge younger individuals to pay close attention to symptoms and push for screenings if they notice persistent changes in their health.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Radwah’s message is clear: Don’t ignore your symptoms. Listen to your body. Get checked.
The American Cancer Society recommends:
- Screening for colon cancer starting at age 45 (earlier if you have a family history)
- Consulting a doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks
- Requesting a colonoscopy if you suspect something is wrong
The sooner cancer is detected, the higher the chance of survival.
Conclusion
Radwah Oda’s story is a powerful reminder that colon cancer symptoms can be subtle but deadly. By sharing her experience, she hopes to save lives and encourage people to take their health seriously.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t dismiss them. Your health is worth it. Seek medical advice, get screened, and advocate for your well-being. Early detection can be the difference between life and death.
Listen to your body—it might be trying to tell you something important.
