Colon CancerCancer of the colon is one of the most common cancers in the united states. It is most often found among people who are over the age of 50, and occurs in both men and women. Early detection from a doctor can make this a treatable problem. Behind lung cancer, colon cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. This disease relies on early detection. According to research, colon cancer can develop gradually from benign polyps. Along with early detection and removal of these polyps, colon cancer could be prevented. To help reduce your chances of developing colon cancer, studies have shown that not smoking, use of dietary supplements, use of aspirin, decreased alcohol consumption, and increased physical activity may help. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer, will still have an increased chance of developing this disease.Noticeable symptoms of colon cancer may be: changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal discomforts, and weight loss with no reason. Several tests are preformed to help detect polyps, cancer, or any other adnormalities. These tests include: Fecal Occult Blood Test, (which checks for hidden blood in the stool), a colonoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy exam, (which exams the colon itself), and Barium Enema, which is a series of x-rays. The death rate from colon cancer has dropped during the past 15 years, because of the new technologies and screenings available for early detection. An estimated 56,600 Americans will die from colon cancer this year. One third of these deaths could be avoided by having regular screening tests done to detect and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. Even if you are symptom free, it is still very important to have regular screenings done for colon cancer. |
