March is colorectal cancer awareness month. It comes at a time when studies show more young people are developing the disease. That has many doctors and health advocates sounding the alarm.

Dr. Lynn O’Connor, Chief of Colon and Rectal Surgery at both Mercy and Saint Joseph’s hospitals, joined News All Day with more information.

Dr. O’Connor says that often, colon cancer is initially asymptomatic. When there are symptoms, they can include rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, weight loss, getting full fast, a change in stool, and abdominal pain.

Getting screened is the best way to make sure you can stay healthy.

Colorectal cancer used to be a disease primarily found in people 50 and older, but more young people are now being diagnosed.

For more information, go to ColonandRectalSurgeryofNewYork.com.