Understanding Colon Cancer: Symptoms and Risk Factors
Did you know that colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States? Yes, that’s right! Colon cancer, as its name states, begins in the colon, a part of the large intestine. While it can affect anyone at any age, it is more common in older adults. Usually, it starts as small clumps called polyps. While most polyps are harmless, some can turn into cancer over time.
Recognizing The Symptoms
1. Abdominal Discomfort
● Persistent stomach pain or cramps that won’t go away.
● Feeling bloated or full, even after eating just a little.
2. Changes in Bowel Habits
● Ongoing diarrhea/constipation that doesn’t seem to improve.
● Stool changes in size, shape, or how often you go.
● Thinner stools, possibly pointing to a blockage.
3. Incomplete Bowel Movement
● Feeling like you still need to go, even right after a bowel movement.
4. Rectal Bleeding/Blood In Stool
● Noticeable blood on toilet paper after wiping or in your stool.
● Dark or black stools might signal bleeding inside the intestines.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss
● Significant weight loss without diet or exercise changes.
● Unusual tiredness/weakness for no obvious reason.
Knowing The Risk Factors
1. Age
● Risk jumps after age 50, but young adults can get it too.
2. Diet
● Eating lots of red and processed meats, and not enough fiber, fruits, or veggies, raises your risk.
3. Diabetes Mellitus Type 2
● People are more likely to get colon cancer with this, possibly due to high insulin levels.
4. Inflammatory Intestinal Conditions
● Chronic inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis and Chron’s disease can increase the chance
of getting colon cancer.
5. Obesity
● Being overweight or obese not only ups the risk but can also affect survival if cancer occurs.
6. Personal/Family History
● If your family has a history of colon cancer, your risk is higher.
● Inherited conditions like FAP or Lynch syndrome also boost your risk.
7. Smoking & Alcohol
● Long-term smokers and heavy alcohol consumers have a higher chance of developing colon
cancer.
Conclusion
Remember, regular screening can catch colon cancer early and remove polyps. A healthy lifestyle—eating fruits, veggies, and fiber, staying active, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol–also lowers your risk. Know your family history and consult your doctor for proper screening.
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