A 31-year-old father of three from the UK is urging others to be vigilant about subtle signs of colon cancer after he neglected symptoms for several months. Chris Kirt, a software developer, first became aware of stomach cramps and alterations in his bowel habits in August 2024. He dismissed these symptoms—until one concerning sign prompted him to seek medical assistance.
“The most significant warning sign for me was the presence of blood without any pain,” Chris shared with his TikTok audience. “That frightened me more than anything else. I realized something was wrong.”
While many people associate blood in the stool with painful conditions, the NHS cautions that dark red or black blood—particularly when accompanied by no pain—can indicate bowel cancer.
Chris also dealt with cramps, constipation, and urgent bowel movements. Nevertheless, it was the painless bleeding that compelled him to take action.
Confronted with a lengthy NHS waitlist, he opted to pay for a private colonoscopy. During the procedure, doctors identified a large tumor in his colon. “I was sedated but conscious. I glanced at the screen and saw a large, mucus-like mass. The room fell silent,” he recounted.
Shortly thereafter, Chris underwent surgery to remove a third of his colon. Now in remission, he utilizes social media to promote awareness about early detection and the significance of trusting one’s instincts.
Researchers attribute the increase in colon cancer among young adults to factors such as obesity, dietary changes, microplastics, and potential bacterial exposure in the food supply. However, Chris does not conform to the typical risk profile.
“Cancer does not always present with a clear warning,” he remarked. “If something feels amiss, have it examined.”
Chris now motivates young individuals to take charge of their health and prioritize regular checkups—even when symptoms appear minor. His experience serves as a compelling reminder that prompt action can be life-saving.