Health Science

The scourge of colon cancer

Learn about the symptoms, screening, treatment, and prevention of colon cancer. Understand the risk factors for this deadly disease and how to reduce your risk by nicolefox
Estimated reading time: 2 min 1 sec
The scourge of colon cancer Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels

Colon cancer is a medical condition that begins in the large intestine, also known as the colon. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

Colon cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably and form a mass, or tumor, that can invade and damage nearby tissue.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer can be asymptomatic in its early stages, making it difficult to diagnose. However, as the cancer progresses, the following signs and symptoms may appear:.

  • Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
  • Blood in the stool
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue and weakness

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

Several risk factors have been identified for colon cancer, including:.

  • Age over 50 years
  • A family history of colon cancer
  • A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • A diet high in red meat and processed foods
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Obesity
  • Smoking

Screening for Colon Cancer

Screening for colon cancer is recommended for adults aged 50 and above.

Related Article Colon cancer: a silent killer Colon cancer: a silent killer

A colonoscopy is the most effective test for detecting colon cancer since it allows the doctor to view the entire length of the colon and rectum and remove suspicious polyps during the procedure. Other screening tests include stool tests that detect blood or DNA markers for colon cancer.

Treatment for Colon Cancer

The treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options include:.

  • Surgery to remove the cancerous tumor and nearby lymph nodes
  • Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
  • Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells throughout the body
  • Targeted therapy to treat specific mutations in the cancer cells

Prevention of Colon Cancer

There are several ways to reduce the risk of colon cancer, including:.

  • Maintaining a healthy diet that is high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables
  • Limiting red meat and processed foods in the diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  • Getting screened for colon cancer regularly

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a significant health concern that affects many people worldwide. Early detection and treatment are crucial for fighting the disease, and people should be aware of the potential risk factors and symptoms associated with colon cancer.

By taking a proactive approach to maintain good health, individuals can reduce their risk of developing this deadly disease.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

Follow us on Google News

Stay informed on the latest news and trends in the healthcare industry.

Follow
Also check The facts about colon surgery prep and bowel cleaning The facts about colon surgery prep and bowel cleaning Risk factors for maternal mortality during pregnancy Risk factors for maternal mortality during pregnancy Do you tire easily? Know your risk for heart disease and stroke Do you tire easily? Know your risk for heart disease and stroke Is Bacon a Major Contributor to Bowel Cancer? Is Bacon a Major Contributor to Bowel Cancer? How likely is depression in 15-year-olds? This tool will tell you How likely is depression in 15-year-olds? This tool will tell you Why staying active could be key to living longer with colon cancer Why staying active could be key to living longer with colon cancer Does Sugar Increase the Risk of Dementia? Does Sugar Increase the Risk of Dementia? Examining the Fundamental Differences between Male and Female Heart Attacks Examining the Fundamental Differences between Male and Female Heart Attacks Typical complications from Crohn’s disease Typical complications from Crohn’s disease Female-specific risk factors for asthma Female-specific risk factors for asthma The link between stretch marks and cancer The link between stretch marks and cancer The Link Between Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Symptoms & Risk Factors The Link Between Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Symptoms & Risk Factors Risk of thrombosis remains high after coronary infection Risk of thrombosis remains high after coronary infection Minimizing the Risk of Osteoporosis: Factors to Consider Minimizing the Risk of Osteoporosis: Factors to Consider Every year, osteoporosis claims the lives of many older adults. Every year, osteoporosis claims the lives of many older adults. Research findings show possible connection between birth control pills and breast cancer Research findings show possible connection between birth control pills and breast cancer Colon Cancer Mortality: The Role of Exercise Colon Cancer Mortality: The Role of Exercise The Anonymous Hazard That Puts Our Hearts at Risk The Anonymous Hazard That Puts Our Hearts at Risk Why Colonoscopy Can Be Beneficial After 75 Why Colonoscopy Can Be Beneficial After 75 Is Your Teenager at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? Is Your Teenager at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? The correlation between walking pace and stroke and heart attack The correlation between walking pace and stroke and heart attack Aspirin and the prevention of intestinal polyps: What you need to know Aspirin and the prevention of intestinal polyps: What you need to know Exploring the Connection Between Diabetes and Risk Factors Exploring the Connection Between Diabetes and Risk Factors Blood type and erectile dysfunction risk: What’s the link? Blood type and erectile dysfunction risk: What’s the link? Can eating yogurt reduce your risk of colon cancer? Can eating yogurt reduce your risk of colon cancer? Can these 5 questions predict Alzheimer’s? Can these 5 questions predict Alzheimer’s? The Hidden Link between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease The Hidden Link between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease How often should a child’s hearing be tested? How often should a child’s hearing be tested? Preventing Alzheimer’s: How Early Should You Start? Preventing Alzheimer’s: How Early Should You Start?
To top