Colorectal Cancer Navigation
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Common Causes Of Colon Cancer
A major life threatening illness, colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, only second in cancer deaths to lung cancer. Colon cancer patients develop abnormal cells forming themselves into clusters, which are also known as polyps. Over time, these polyps grow and as they grow and change, they develop into deadly colon cancer.
Many people stricken with this type of cancer have a family history of relatives who have suffered from or who have died from the disease. With age, the risk of colon cancer increases as it is most common in people over the age of 50. Many people also carry the genetics for developing this cancer. By undergoing a series of genetic tests, these people can know whether or not they are genetically predisposed to developing colon cancer.
Who Develops Cancer
Unfortunately, there is no definite way to pinpoint who will develop colon cancer and who will not. In addition, researchers don't know why some people just have bigger risk factors for developing the disease than others. These risk factors include a family history of colon cancer, previously having any type of cancer, smoking, obesity, and a poor diet lacking in nutrition and fiber.
Since there are so many risk factors, many people wonder if it's impossible to avoid colon cancer. The answer is you can do a lot to avoid colon cancer, even if you are at high risk. Research has shown that exercise and physical activity and a high fiber diet can help to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.
The Symptoms Of Colon Cancer
As is the case with many other diseases, the symptoms of colon cancer are similar to the symptoms of many diseases. This makes it difficult to know if you have colon cancer and complicates a physician's assessment of what is wrong with you since so many diseases and illnesses exhibit the same symptoms.
This is why colon cancer screenings are crucial. If you experience weakness, abdominal puffiness without any weight gain, a change in your bowel movements, abnormal bleeding, a pale complexion, nausea, or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention immediately. While these are symptoms of other diseases in addition to colon cancer, they are all symptoms of colon cancer and should be treated seriously.
Every person is different so these symptoms can vary slightly from person to person. Since these symptoms can appear as severe or mild, patients suffering from any of them should be screened for colon cancer or polyps that may develop into colon cancer.
When left untreated, cancerous cells can grow and spread through the body, leading to the need for surgery or intense treatments. Unfortunately, if the cancer spreads effectively, the colon cancer will not respond to treatment.
Ask your physician about undergoing a simple colon cancer test when exhibiting symptoms and even just as a peace of mind measure when not exhibiting symptoms. Talk to your physician about colon cancer, especially if you have higher risk factors for developing the disease.
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