Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a deadly disease that affects millions of people around the world. It is the third most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
The good news is that colon cancer is highly preventable and treatable, especially if it is detected at an early stage. In this article, we will discuss an effective method of reducing colon cancer tumors by 50%.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the large intestine. It is often associated with polyps, which are small growths that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.
In most cases, these growths are benign, but they can develop into cancerous tumors if left untreated. The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including age, family history, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity.
The Effective Method of Reducing Colon Cancer Tumors by 50%
The effective method of reducing colon cancer tumors by 50% is through regular colon cancer screening. Colon cancer screening can detect polyps before they turn cancerous, or detect cancer at an early stage when it is highly treatable.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people with an average risk of developing colon cancer undergo regular screening beginning at age 45. Those with a higher risk, such as those with a family history of colon cancer, may need to start screening earlier.
Types of Colon Cancer Screening Tests
There are several types of colon cancer screening tests available, including:.
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
- Stool DNA Test
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is the most common and most effective screening test for colon cancer. It involves a long, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end being inserted into the rectum and colon.
The camera allows the doctor to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for polyps or other abnormalities. If any polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy, but only the lower part of the colon is examined. This test is less invasive than a colonoscopy and may be an option for people who are unable to undergo a colonoscopy.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a simple stool test that detects blood in the stool. Blood in the stool can indicate the presence of polyps or cancer. If the test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is usually recommended.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is another stool test that detects blood in the stool. This test is less sensitive than the FIT and may require multiple samples. If the test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is usually recommended.
Stool DNA Test
A stool DNA test is a newer type of stool test that looks for DNA markers associated with colon cancer or polyps. This test may be an option for people who are unable to undergo a colonoscopy or who are at average risk for colon cancer.
The Importance of Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer screening is important because it can detect polyps or cancer at an early stage when they are highly treatable. If colon cancer is detected at an early stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 90%.
However, if colon cancer is not detected until it has spread to other parts of the body, the 5-year relative survival rate drops to 14%. That is why regular colon cancer screening is so important.
Conclusion
Colon cancer is a deadly disease that can be prevented and treated through regular colon cancer screening. The most effective screening test is a colonoscopy, but there are several other options available.
If you are at average risk for colon cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that you begin regular screening at age 45. Speak to your doctor about which screening test is right for you and how often you should be screened.