One in 20 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in their lifetime. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of this disease. Early detection is key to surviving colon cancer. It is also one of the deadliest cancers, with a five-year survival rate of around 50%. This is partly because many people do not realize they are suffering from colon cancer until it is too late. In this post, we will discuss the 10 most common symptoms of this deadly disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your doctor right away.
What Is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon, or large intestine. The colon is a part of the body’s digestive system, and its main function is to absorb water and nutrients from food. Colon cancer can develop in either the upper or lower part of the colon. The most common form of colon cancer begins as harmless, noncancerous growths known as polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. Colorectal cancer is also known as colon or rectal cancer, which refers to a disease that starts in the rectum and affects both organs.
There are several risk factors for colon cancer, including age, family history, smoking, and obesity. People with certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or Lynch syndrome, are also at increased risk. Symptoms of colon cancer may include bleeding from the rectum, blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
With early detection and treatment, most people with colon cancer can expect to survive for many years.
Colon Cancer Symptoms
There are several symptoms of colorectal cancer and they include:
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, or a change in stool consistency
- Bleeding from the rectal or blood in stool
- Persistent abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that they can rule out other potential causes and determine whether or not you need to be tested for colon cancer.
Risk Factors Of Colon Cancer
There are many risk factors associated with colon cancer, some of which are controllable and some of which are not. One of the most important controllable risk factors is diet. A diet high in fat and low in fiber has been shown to increase the risk to develop colon cancer, while a diet high in fiber and low in fat appears to decrease the risk. Other controllable risk factors include obesity, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Some uncontrollable risk factors include age, family history, and certain inherited genetic conditions.
Although it is not possible to completely eliminate the risk of colon cancer, making healthy lifestyle choices can help to reduce the likelihood of developing the disease. quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise can all help to lower the risk of colon cancer. In addition, individuals who are at high risk for the disease may need to undergo regular screening tests such as colonoscopies in order to detect any problems early.
By being aware of the risks associated with colon cancer and taking steps to reduce those risks, individuals can help to keep themselves healthy and reduce their chances of developing this serious disease.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer screening is an important part of preventative health care. Screening can help to detect cancer early when it is most likely to be treated successfully. There are a variety of colorectal cancer screening tests available, and the best test for you may depend on your age, health history, and personal preferences.
Fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs) look for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. FOBTs can be done at home using a kit from your doctor, and they are typically done once per year.
Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are procedures that allow your doctor to look inside the rectum and colon for polyps or cancer. During a sigmoidoscopy, a short, flexible tube is inserted through the rectum into the lower part of the colon. Colonoscopy involves the insertion of a long, flexible tube through the rectum into the entire colon. Both procedures are typically done every 5-10 years.
CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) uses x-rays to create detailed pictures of the colon and rectum. This procedure is typically done every five years.
Depending on your age, health history, and personal preferences, you and your doctor will decide which screening test or tests are right for you. It is important to remember that no single test is perfect, and that colon cancer can develop between screenings. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of colon cancer and to see a doctor if you experience any of them.
Colon Cancer Treatment
At present, the most common and effective treatment for colon cancer is surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove and kill cancer cells from the body. In most cases, a surgeon will be able to remove the entire tumor. However, if cancer has spread to other parts of the body, additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may be necessary.
In general, the earlier colon cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. For this reason, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease and to get regular screening tests. If you are over the age of 50, have a family history of colon cancer, or have other risk factors, you should talk to your doctor about getting a colonoscopy. This test can help to detect colon cancer in its early stages and increase your chances of successful treatment.
Causes Of Colon Cancer
There are many different causes of colon cancer, but the most common cause is uncontrolled cell growth. When cells in the colon divide and grow, they sometimes become cancer cells. The majority of these tumors are benign, which means they do not contain cancer cells. However, some tumors can become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body. Another common cause of colon cancer is a family history of the disease. If you have a family who has had colon cancer, your chances of developing the disease are greater.
Tips On How To Prevent Colon Cancer
There are a number of things you can do to lower your risk, including exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a diet high in fiber and low in red and processed meats. You should also limit your alcohol intake and get screened for colon cancer starting at age 50. Taking these precautions can help you avoid becoming one of the thousands of people who die from colon cancer each year.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve seen, colon cancers can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common include changes in bowel habits, bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain, and fatigue. However, it’s important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. So if you’re experiencing any of them, it’s important to see a doctor for a professional diagnosis.
With early detection, colon cancer is highly treatable. So don’t delay in getting checked out if you have any concerns. With prompt treatment, you’ll be on your way to a healthy recovery.
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