The young patient was admitted with rapid weight loss and severe abdominal pain. Diagnostic results at the local hospital revealed the tumor had metastasized to multiple sites in the abdominal cavity, accompanied by ascites (fluid accumulation). Doctors at Zhengzhou City Hospital described the patient's condition as critical, according to China Times.

Chinese media reported that the boy was raised by his grandparents from a young age. Due to their indulgence, his diet lacked adult supervision. He consumed carbonated drinks and milk tea almost daily, even eating snacks instead of meals. Doctors noted that maintaining this extreme diet over a long period can disrupt the gut microbiome, create a chronic inflammatory environment, and increase the risk of abnormal intestinal cell proliferation.

Before hospitalization, the young patient experienced symptoms such as diarrhea and loss of appetite. However, his family mistakenly believed it was common gastritis and self-medicated the child at home. It was only when the child developed rectal bleeding and acute abdominal pain that the family sought emergency medical care.

Illustration: United Daily.

Medical professionals acknowledge that, while sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods are not the sole direct cause of cancer, their long-term consumption can lead to severe fiber deficiency and intestinal dysfunction. When combined with habits like physical inactivity and staying up late, the risk of intestinal diseases increases significantly. Some experts also recommend that young patients, like in this case, undergo further screening for genetic factors, which can be accelerated by an unhealthy diet.

Colorectal cancer has shown a trend of affecting younger individuals in recent years. Recent data indicates that the proportion of patients under 35 years old has increased to 12,7%, with many cases even reported at younger ages. Doctors advise people to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as blood in their stool, sudden changes in bowel habits, or unexplained rapid weight loss.

Binh Minh (According to China Times)