How often do we really pay attention to our body’s quiet warnings? For one mother, ignoring the early signs nearly cost her life.
Radwah Oda, a single mom from Texas, has been fighting stage four colon cancer while raising her young son and working full-time. She went viral on TikTok after sharing the symptoms she overlooked—earning over 2.3 million views—and urging others not to make the same mistake. Her honesty is saving lives by drawing attention to symptoms many dismiss as “nothing serious.”
1. Changes in Stool Shape and Habits
Radwah’s first sign was a change in her bowel movements. Her stool became thin, almost pencil-shaped, something she brushed off as mild constipation. But changes in stool size or consistency can indicate a blockage or tumor in the colon.
She also noticed traces of blood but assumed it was from hemorrhoids—another common mistake. “Every time I used the bathroom, I felt like I wasn’t done,” she said. That lingering pressure or incomplete feeling after bowel movements can be another red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.
2. Persistent Abdominal or Body Pain
Abdominal pain is one of the most well-known symptoms of colon cancer, yet it’s often misinterpreted. Radwah felt pain under her right breast and thought her bra was too tight. In reality, it was a sign that the cancer had already spread to her liver.
Her story is a reminder that unusual or persistent pain—especially when it doesn’t go away—warrants medical attention. It’s better to check and find nothing than to wait and discover it’s something serious.
3. Constant Fatigue
Despite getting enough rest, Radwah found herself exhausted all the time. “I would nap multiple times a day, but it never helped,” she recalled. Chronic fatigue is common in cancer patients because the body is fighting harder than it should, draining energy reserves.
If tiredness lingers despite good sleep and nutrition, it’s worth discussing with a doctor. Fatigue can be one of the body’s earliest cries for help.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
In another video, Radwah shared that she began losing weight rapidly and had no appetite. She assumed it was due to stress or a stomach bug—until her diagnosis proved otherwise. Sudden, unexplained weight loss is one of the most important warning signs of many cancers, including colon cancer.
5. Persistent Stomach Pain or Discomfort
Stomach cramps, bloating, or a “bug” that doesn’t go away can sometimes signal something more serious. “Until the doctors told me I had cancer, I thought it was just bad digestion,” Radwah said. If you experience consistent stomach discomfort, it’s always best to rule out underlying issues.
A Call to Awareness
Radwah now uses her platform to raise awareness: “If you have any of these symptoms, don’t panic—but see a doctor.” Her message is simple: listen to your body. Don’t dismiss ongoing symptoms or try to explain them away.
According to the American Cancer Society, the most common warning signs of colon cancer include:
Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or narrow stool)
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
Unexplained weight loss
Weakness or fatigue
Colon Cancer Is Rising in Younger Adults
Doctors are seeing more cases in people under 50, many of whom never suspected they were at risk. The Mayo Clinic reports that persistent abdominal pain and bloody stools are among the earliest symptoms in younger patients. Early detection can dramatically improve treatment outcomes.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Radwah Oda’s journey is a powerful reminder that awareness can save lives. Her courage has inspired thousands to book checkups, ask questions, and take their health seriously.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. See a doctor. Early detection could make all the difference — because sometimes, paying attention to the smallest changes is what keeps us alive.