A 31-year-old father-of-three is urging others to take notice of subtle signs of bowel cancer after his own diagnosis, which came following months of mild but persistent symptoms.
Chris Kirt, a software developer from the UK, began experiencing changes in bowel habits and stomach cramps in August 2024. Initially, he dismissed the symptoms as minor digestive issues and delayed seeking medical advice. However, one unusual symptom eventually prompted him to act.
“The biggest red flag for me was passing blood with zero pain,” Chris told his 12,300 TikTok followers. “That scared me more than anything. I knew in my heart something wasn’t right, it felt serious.”
Although many people associate blood in stool with painful conditions like anal fissures, bowel cancer can present with painless bleeding. According to the NHS, dark red or black blood in the stool may signal cancer, especially when accompanied by no discomfort.
Chris recalled other symptoms that crept in over time, including urgent bowel movements, constipation, and cramping.
Still, it was the unexplained, painless bleeding that ultimately pushed him to seek help.
Faced with a long waiting list for a diagnostic colonoscopy, Chris made the difficult decision to pay for the procedure privately. During the test, the medical team discovered a large tumor in his colon.
“I was sedated but still aware. I remember looking at the screen and seeing a large, snotty mass on the side of my colon. The room went silent,” he said. “I asked, ‘What is that?’ I knew right away it was cancer.”
Following his diagnosis, Chris underwent surgery to remove a third of his bowel. He is now in remission and using social media to raise awareness about early symptoms and the importance of timely diagnosis.
Experts are exploring a number of possible causes behind the recent surge in diagnoses, including rising obesity rates, sedentary lifestyles, dietary changes, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Some studies have suggested a potential link with processed foods, microplastics, and even bacteria such as E. coli in the food chain, per BMJ.
While obesity is known to increase bowel cancer risk, many younger patients, like Chris, do not fit this profile.
“Cancer doesn't always come with a clear warning,” he said. “Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, get it checked.”
Chris is now encouraging others, especially younger adults, not to ignore their bodies, and to advocate for themselves when it comes to their health.