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Colon Cancer Cases Surge in Younger Adults, Nashville Father Urges Screening
Jamey Tidwell was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer despite having no family history, highlighting the growing trend doctors can't ignore.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:10pm
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Every day, nearly 60 Americans in their 40s or younger are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, making it the deadliest cancer for adults under 50. Jamey Tidwell, a Nashville father of three, was shocked by his stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis despite having no family history. Doctors say they've seen a significant increase in early-onset colon cancer and urge people to take symptoms seriously, as nearly half of adults under 45 say their symptoms were initially brushed off by doctors.
Why it matters
The sharp rise in colon cancer cases among younger adults is a growing public health concern, as many people in their 40s and younger are dismissing or having their symptoms overlooked. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, but the trend suggests more education and screening may be needed to address this emerging health crisis.
The details
Tidwell says he initially tried to write off his symptoms like changes in bowel habits, constipation, and blood in his stool, thinking they were just a normal part of getting older. But the signs became impossible to ignore. Doctors say Tidwell's case is becoming more common, with about 20,000 people under 45 expected to be diagnosed with colon cancer this year. Experts believe factors like diet, lack of exercise, and environmental influences may be contributing to the surge in early-onset cases.
- Tidwell was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2026.
- Colon Cancer Awareness Month was in April 2026.
The players
Jamey Tidwell
A Nashville father of three who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer despite having no family history of the disease.
Dr. Matthew Neff
A gastroenterologist at TriStar Centennial Medical Center who has seen a significant increase in early-onset colon cancer cases.
What they’re saying
“When I was diagnosed, my initial reaction was, 'I don't think you have the right chart. I came in here for digestive issues.'”
— Jamey Tidwell
“We have seen a pretty significant increase in early-onset colon cancer. About 20,000 people this year will likely be diagnosed before the age of 45.”
— Dr. Matthew Neff, Gastroenterologist, TriStar Centennial Medical Center
“Rectal bleeding is never a normal symptom—that's something that needs to be evaluated.”
— Dr. Matthew Neff, Gastroenterologist, TriStar Centennial Medical Center
What’s next
Tidwell will undergo chemotherapy as part of his ongoing treatment for stage 3 colorectal cancer.
The takeaway
This case highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and earlier screening for colon cancer, especially among younger adults who may be dismissing or having their symptoms overlooked. Proactive steps like listening to your body and seeking medical attention for any persistent changes could make a critical difference in catching this deadly disease early.
