Anyone can occasionally have narrow stools. As long as bowel movements are otherwise normal, this usually isn't cause for concern. However, several possible causes of thin stools warrant attention ...

Narrow stools can be caused by various factors. Learn what causes narrow stool and how to make the shape regular again.

Poop comes in a lot of different shapes and sizes. Find out why it's sometimes narrow and stringy, and what this means for your health.

In addition to a change in stool shape or consistency, this can include going to the bathroom more or less often. Pencil-thin poop is one of the less common signs of colorectal cancer.

Five signs you might have cancer and need a checkup with warning symptoms that should never be ignored or dismissed as stress ...

Dr. Waqqas Tai said pencil-thin stools, rectal bleeding, anemia (particularly men), severe constipation or diarrhea and/or unexplained weight loss, fevers and night sweats may indicate colon cancer.

Other colorectal cancer signs and symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, narrow stools, or still feeling that you need to have a bowel movement ...

Shannin Desroches was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She had no symptoms for years, experiencing a nagging pain only months before diagnosis.

Pencil-thin stools may or may not indicate colorectal cancer. If not accompanied by other usual signs of colon cancer, it may also be an indication of constipation, or IBS.

Other colorectal cancer signs and symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, narrow stools, or still feeling that you need to have a bowel movement ...