MBBS, MD - Oncology, DNB - Super Speciality, Immuno Oncology
Oncologist,
•
22 years experience
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What are some of the symptoms that indicate colon cancer?
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Colon cancer is not very easy to diagnose. A person with colon cancer presents with symptoms associated with general abdominal illness including abdominal pain, altered bowel movements, and darkening of stools due to internal bleeding. The patient can also have generalised lethargy and fatigue which is common with any illness. Unexplained weight loss is another issue. The unrelenting and recurrent nature of these symptoms should require colon cancer to be ruled out. If you are at risk for colon cancer and have these above symptoms, ruling out colon cancer is advisable.
What are some of the risk factors for developing colon cancer?
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As with any cancer, a family history of colon cancer ups the risk of a person s tendency to develop colon cancer significantly. In addition, history of ulcerative colitis or genetic disorders of the colon increases the risk. Further, a sedentary lifestyle coupled with a processed diet that is rich in fats and sugar and low in fiber increases the risk even more. If there is a family history of colon cancer, then symptoms for colon cancer should be watched for. This can help in early detection and complete recovery.
Colon cancer can be detected by genetic testing
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There are genetic tests available which can be used to identify if a person is likely to develop colon cancer. These are specifically useful for people who have a family history of cancer and associated symptoms. Some of them, especially lifestyle including weight changes and dietary habits can be managed if the chances of developing the cancer are high. This can help prolong the onset of cancer and also reduce severity. Being aware of the risk for colon cancer can be one of the major steps in prevention and early intervention.
Colon cancer is linked to dietary habits
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Without a doubt, diet plays a significant role in the development of colon cancer. With processed foods and fiber on the gradual decline, people with no family history are also developing colon cancer. The refined sugars and fats aggravate colon motility issues and predispose to cancer development. This is aggravated by the sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy diet with loads of fiber and reduced fats can help avoid colon cancer.
If someone is at risk, colorectal screening should be done annually
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This is probably the most effective method of reducing colon cancer. If there are risk factors for colon cancer, it is advisable to start screening annually to look for cancerous development. This will help in early detection, which improves prognosis significantly. Preventing cancer or detecting it in the early stages helps in prevention and results in better survival rates.
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