Colon Cancer – Are You at Risk?

Prevention, Colon cancer, colorectal cancer, bowels, intestines, polyps, early detection, screening, colonoscopy, treatable, age, family history, diet, exercise, smoking, death, tips from townColon 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.

Prevention, Colon cancer, colorectal cancer, bowels, intestines, polyps, early detection, screening, colonoscopy, treatable, age, family history, diet, exercise, smoking, death, tips from townThe 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 colonPrevention, Colon cancer, colorectal cancer, bowels, intestines, polyps, early detection, screening, colonoscopy, treatable, age, family history, diet, exercise, smoking, death, tips from town

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?

 

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Author: tammyjuco

Motivating and assisting you and your family to a healthier and happier lifestyle.