In recent years, the incidence rate of colorectal cancer in China has shown a significant upward trend. Each year, new cases of colorectal cancer account for more than 10% of all new cases of malignant tumors, ranking second in all new cases of malignant tumors. The gradual development of cancer from normal cells is a relatively slow process, but many people do not seek medical attention until the late stage of colorectal cancer, due to a lack of vigilance towards early symptoms. Correctly understanding the "warning symptoms" of colorectal cancer is the key to discovering the condition. The earlier the warning symptoms of colorectal cancer are identified, the greater the chance of cure. Early symptoms of colorectal cancer are easily confused with intestinal dysfunction, indigestion, enteritis, dysentery, etc. But seek medical attention promptly when the following situations occur. 1. Blood in stool, which cannot be explained by hemorrhoids, is often the earliest symptom of colorectal cancer; If it is fresh blood, it may come from the colon, which is close to the rectum. Generally, the amount of blood in the stool is not large and appears dark red. It can flow out before and after defecation and adhere to the surface of the stool; If the stool turns black, even to the color of tar, bleeding may come from the upper part of the colon. 2. Purulent and bloody stools that persist or recur, and the treatment effect for dysentery is not good; The patient has frequent bowel movements, an indescribable feeling, and often experiences a sensation of anal prolapse. 3. Changes in bowel habits: Normal people usually have regular bowel movements once a day, neither dry nor loose. There are also a few people who have 2-3 times a day, or once every two or three days, but without any symptoms. Sudden changes in bowel habits, including changes in frequency of bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of both, occurring without any triggering factors such as living environment, working conditions, travel, eating, or medication, and lasting for more than 3 weeks, should be given extra attention. 4. Changes in stool shape: The stool becomes thinner, flatter, or has grooves on the surface. 5. Patients who have repeated fecal occult blood tests. 6. Abdominal pain and bloating: Early colorectal cancer does not cause pain, and local pain may only occur when the tumor invades the surrounding tissues of the rectum or peritoneum. When there is persistent discomfort, dull pain, or bloating in the lower abdomen, one should be alert to the possibility of colorectal cancer. 7. Polyp type colon cancer with abdominal masses is more common in the right colon, and larger lumps are often felt in the abdomen. The mass of the transverse colon can be felt around the navel, and the mass is relatively hard, of varying sizes, with nodules on the surface. Long term chronic bleeding caused by anemia and colorectal cancer is the main cause of anemia. Anemia is generally manifested as fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, palpitations, pale color of the conjunctiva and nail bed, etc. 9. Weight loss: Long term tumor consumption can cause significant weight loss, and patients often feel weak and lethargic. If these symptoms appear in the short term and gradually worsen, they should be taken seriously. Is it necessary to suspect colorectal cancer if there is rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits in high-risk individuals? How to determine whether a person is at high risk of colorectal cancer? It is important to remember the following tips: According to the "Colorectal Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis and Treatment Plan (2024 Edition)" issued by the National Health Commission, the following groups belong to the high-risk population of colorectal cancer: 1. The high-risk population of sporadic colorectal cancer is evaluated based on age, gender, family history of colorectal cancer in first-degree relatives, smoking, and body mass index (BMI). If the cumulative score of the following items is ≥ 4 points, it is considered a high-risk population. Age: ≤ 49 years old (0 points), 50-59 years old (1 point), ≥ 60 years old (2 points). Gender: Female (0 points), Male (1 point). Smoking history: None (0 points), Yes (1 point). BMI：lt; 23kg/m2 (0 points), ≥ 23kg/m2 (1 point). First degree relatives (parents, children, brothers and sisters) diagnosed with colorectal cancer: none (0 point), yes (1 point; among them, if there is one first degree relative lt; when they are 60 years old, they are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, or two first degree relatives are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, 4 points). 2. Individuals with Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis are at high risk for hereditary colorectal cancer. Early screening, diagnosis, and treatment are the most important methods for preventing colorectal cancer. High risk individuals should undergo regular screening. Colonoscopy is a recommended first-line screening method. For those who are intolerant or do not comply with first-line screening methods, alternative methods such as immunological or chemical fecal occult blood testing, sigmoidoscopy, colon CT imaging, and multi-target fecal DNA testing can be chosen. In addition to being alert to the above symptoms and following regular screening for high-risk populations, lifestyle adjustments such as controlling smoking, maintaining a healthy weight (BMIlt; 23kg/m2), reducing intake of red meat and processed meat products, and increasing dietary fiber can also effectively reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of colorectal cancer can significantly improve the cure rate and survival rate of patients. As the first person responsible for one's own health, please remember to promptly detect warning symptoms and conduct regular screening for high-risk individuals! (New Society)