Appendix cancer on the rise in younger adults: Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment explained

Appendix cancer, though rare, is being diagnosed more frequently in younger adults. Recognising early warning signs can make all the difference in treatment and survival. (Image: Pexels)

Appendiceal cancer is a rare cancer that forms in the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. Less than one percent of all gastrointestinal cancers is due to bile duct cancer, but studies have shown that its incidence has been on the rise over time. Even more alarming is the rising prevalence of the disease among people younger than 40. Appendix cancer has historically favoured older adults; however, its demographic trend is changing.

One of the largest problems with appendix cancer is that it is usually diagnosed with vague or non-specific symptoms, similar to abdominal pain, bloating, or digestive irritability. One often confuses symptoms with other gastrointestinal problems making diagnosis a problem in itself.

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Types of Appendix Cancer

According to Dr Waseem Abbas, Associate Director - Medical Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Appendix cancer is caused when cells in the appendix mutate and begin to grow uncontrollably. There are different types of appendix cancer:

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) – Most common and often grow slowly

Mucinous adenocarcinoma – Produces mucin and can cause pseudomyxoma peritonei (jelly-like build-up in the abdomen)

Goblet cell carcinoma – Aggressive and rare

Signet ring cell - Carcinoma is very aggressive and difficult to cure.

 Symptoms to Watch For

Many early-stage appendix cancers don’t show signs and when symptoms are present, they can easily be mistaken for other things, like appendicitis or IBS. Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain or distension
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss
• Ovarian masses (sometimes seen in women with no I symptoms)
• Appendicitis-like symptoms that don't resolve
•  Diagnosis & Detection
• Appendix cancer is most often found incidentally, such as when:
• After an appendectomy.
• When undergoing a scan for unrelated problems.
• When having exploratory surgery.

CT scans or MRIs

Colonoscopies

Biopsies and pathology tests

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of the tumor:

Surgery: Often the first step (appendicectomy, right hemicolectomy)

HIPEC (Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy): Specific to mucinous type cancers

Systematic chemotherapy: if aggressive or advanced

Surveillance: slow growing or early stage cancer.

What You Can Do

Know your body – Don't ignore persistent GI symptoms.

Ask questions – If undergoing an appendectomy, ask for pathology results.

Know your family history – Some rare cancer syndromes may raise your risk.

Advocate for yourself – If something feels wrong, push for answers.

Raising awareness helps increase early detection of Appendix cancer, which is critical for survival. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent abdominal symptoms, don’t assume it's nothing. Early intervention can make all the difference.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.