Colon Cancer
Colon cancer affects people from every race and age group. It is found in the large intestine which is located in the digestive system. This type of cancer starts as a small benign growth. This benign clump is known in medical terms such as adenomatous polyps. These cells can develop into colon cancer if undetected. Cancer of any kind can affect the quality of life experienced by the sufferer, as well as the lives of those around them. Doctors try to encourage their patients to have regular tests and screenings. This can reduce the chances of developing any cancerous cells.
There are a variety of symptoms, but the most noticeable colon cancer early symptoms and the colon cancer warning signs are:
- Blood located within the passed stool or rectum bleeding
- Abdominal problems such as inflammation, cramping and general pain
- A heavy feeling and that the bowel still feels full after a bowel movement
- Weight loss and constant fatigue, loss of energy
There are a wide percentage of people that have colon cancer and do not know they have it. Symptoms can be different in each cancer ridden individual and some may experience worse symptoms because of the location and size. If an individual is experiencing any of these symptoms or if they have a cancer concern, they should talk to their doctor immediately. The doctor will be able to issues tests and deliver the results to the individual. Colon cancer develops when the healthier cells transform. When the healthy cells develop they normally spread throughout the body to keep it running at optimal health. If the growth of the cells exceeds normal levels and become out of control, precancerous (polyps) cells can begin to develop in the intestines.
Scientists have proven that colon cancer can be inherited through the family genes, although there is a very small chance of this happening. The two main types of colon cancer are hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer and familial adenomatous polyposis. The latter is a very unique condition that involved a large growth of polyps within the rectum and colon. Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer is also known as 'Lynch syndrome'.
There are some major risk factors involved in colon cancer such as:
- African Americans tend to have a much larger risk of colon cancer.
- People that are the age of 50 and over are more prone to developing colon cancer.
- Hereditary, genetics, and a family history of colon cancer.
- People who drink alcohol heavily and who smoke are at risk of colon cancer.
- Sitting for long periods. A sedentary daily lifestyle can increase colon cancer chances.
- Diabetics and obese people may be at a large risk of colon cancer.
- High fats and a low fiber diet can make an individual prone to colon cancer.
- Inflammation of the intestines. Problems and conditions such as Crohn's disease can make people more susceptible to colon cancer.
People who are afraid they might be at risk of colon cancer should talk to their doctor and ask them to perform the necessary tests to rule out any medical problems.
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