Colon Cancer – Are You at Risk?
Colon Cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in the United States but is not very well known or talked about. Also known as Colorectal Cancer, it targets the large intestine and rectum. Common symptoms are stomach pains, cramping, bloating, bloody stools or changes in stool composition. Because of the area and effects this cancer has, most people are too embarrassed or uncomfortable to discuss their symptoms candidly with their doctor. This is unfortunate because this cancer is one of the most preventable and if detected early enough, highly treatable.
The absolute best defense is early screening, especially if you are at higher risk for developing this cancer. ALL people should start yearly screening at age 50, unless you have a family history – then you should start at age 45. This needs to be discussed individually with your primary care physician.
Other risk factors are:
Over 50 years of age
Presence of polyps in the colon
Immediate Family History of colon cancer (the more members affected the greater your risk)
Previous colon, breast, ovary or uterine cancer
History of Crohn’s disease or ulcers
Diets high in red meat and animal fat and low in fiber
Sedentary lifestyle
Obesity
Smoking
Symptoms:
Change in bowel movements and consistency
Bloody stools and/or rectal bleeding
Abdominal pain, cramps, bloating
Unexplained weight loss
General feelings of malaise and lethargy
Prevention:
Screening: From at home tests to colonoscopies the screening test for you should be discussed with your doctor
Diet rich in fresh fruit and veg, low in fat, high in fiber
Daily exercise of 30 minutes or more
Deaths caused by colon cancer can be decreased by 80% through early detection and regular screening tests so isn’t that worth the slight discomfort you might have in discussing this with your doctor?
