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6 questions answered about colon cancer

6 questions answered about colon cancer

Dealing with cancer can be a lot to take. There are not many people who necessarily know about the condition. The unknown is what makes things scarier. Instead of wondering and turning things over and over, it is better to ask questions and get the required information. This article answers some of the basic questions about colon cancer and addresses the symptoms, risk factors, possible causes, and diagnostic options.

Who are at risk of getting colon cancer?
People are over the age of 50, irrespective of their gender, are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer. Other than age, people who have a family history of having colon cancer or polyps are at an even greater risk. People who have a history of having chronic inflammation in the bowels due to IBS, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis are highly susceptible to developing colon cancer. Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that leads to death. To ensure early diagnosis and cure, it is important to get regular checkups, follow-ups and adhere to suggested treatment.

What is a polyp?
A cluster of cells that forms like a lump on the lining of the organ is known as a polyp. These growths are not painful and most often do not cause any discomfort to the patient. However, they can often turn cancerous. Colonoscopy is performed to detect the presence of polyps. Thereafter, depending on the condition and its severity, a suitable plan of action is formulated.

What can cause colon cancer?

Although the exact cause of cancer remains unknown, it can be caused by genetic as well as environmental factors. Lifestyle choices such as a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, obesity, and smoking increase the risk of an individual falling prey to it. Genetics also plays a substantial role in the individual’s chances of developing colon cancer. Genes help determine the susceptibility of the individual to developing colon cancer, and lifestyle and dietary choices help determine which individuals are at a greater risk. In most cases determining the root cause of the disease is not possible. One can only detect that cancer started due to genetic changes in the tissues of the colon or rectum.

What are the diagnostic options available?

Regular checkups help keep tabs on the condition of the patient. Screening is the best option to keep a tab on things and also keep cancer from progressing. Screening tests help detect the presence of cancer cells; they also are useful for finding and eliminating polyps from the colorectal regions. The various screening tests that can be performed to confirm are fecal occult blood test or FOBT, double-contrast barium enema, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. Seeking help from a medical health professional is the right step towards detecting and treating the condition. A colorectal surgeon can guide the patient by prescribing the right diagnostic tests to be taken and help come up with a treatment plan.

What can be done to prevent colon cancer?

As is with every health concern, screening and timely diagnosis are important. Therefore, it is advised that patients get themselves tested at regular intervals. For people that are nearing 50 years of age, yearly testing is advisable. Regular testing helps find out the presence of precancerous colorectal polyps, if any, and decreases the chances of cancer development. Dietary and lifestyle changes also can contribute to the prevention of the condition. Cutting down and eliminating the consumption of alcohol is one piece of advice that remains common for the prevention of any health concern. So is the cessation of cigarette smoking. Inculcate more healthy fibers into the diet and lower the quantity of animal fat. Apart from these tips, ensuring a healthy and active lifestyle ensures a healthy colon and rectum.

What are the symptoms associated with colon cancer?

The early stages of development of colorectal cancer are generally asymptomatic. However, signs and symptoms are noticeable during the later stages of the condition. The symptoms of colon cancer are as bloody stools, constipation, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, gas or bloating, persistent abdominal pain and/or cramps, changes in the stool that goes on for more than a few weeks, vomiting or nausea, unsatisfactory bowel movement, and tiredness.

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