Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States. It stands in the third position among cancer-related deaths in the country. According to research studies, people belonging to African-American race are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer when compared to the other races. The American Cancer Society has estimated that colon cancer rates among youths of 20-34 year old are expected to increase by 90% by 2030. Having a basic understanding of the disease can be life saving. Read the basic facts about colon cancer here.
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is the type of cancer that develops in the colon, which is other ways known as the large intestine. It occurs in the lower part of the digestive system; that is in the colon. Cancer may occur in the rectum also. Colon cancer and rectum cancer are collectively called as colorectal cancer.
Know these symptoms
Majorly, the 3 signs of colon cancer include:
â Presence of blood in the stool or dark stool
â Diarrhea or constipation or a change in bowel movements that stays for a longer period
â Bleeding from the rectum
The other symptoms include unexpected weight loss, weakness, abdominal pain, fatigue, a feeling that the bowel is not empty, bloating sensation, etc. Ignoring the colon cancer symptoms may put your life at risk. Make sure you take medical assistance if you observe any of the above mentioned symptoms.
Causes & Risk factors
It is yet to figure out the exact cause of colon cancer. It is normally seen in men and women above 50 years of age, although men are at a higher risk. It begins with the formation of the noncancerous cells called adenomateous polyps in most cases. Some of these cells may later develop into cancerous cells, leading to colon cancer. You are at a higher risk of colon cancer in the following conditions:
â If colorectal cancer runs in your family
â Presence of polyps in the colon
â Diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease
â Higher consumption of high-fat food
How is it treated?
Surgical removal of the tumor is the most common treatment method if diagnosed with colon cancer. It may be followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. However, the cure from the treatment depends on the extent of the growth of cancerous cells and overall health of the patient. In some patients, colon cancer can recur in the same spot or at a distant organ after treatment in the initial stage.
Natural ways of prevention
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following a proper balanced diet help you gain control over your health, and keep certain types of cancers at bay. Include lots of fiber food, whole grains, fruits and vegetables in the diet in order to limit the risk of developing colon cancer. Avoid consumption of red meat, processed meat, fat-rich food. Limit alcohol consumption, and say no to smoking and tobacco. Follow a proper exercise regime and maintain a healthy body weight.