Cancer means an abnormal growth or replication of cells, Colon cancer occurs when cells in the large intestine and rectum grow abnormally.
Treatment can vary by stage and type of colon cancer. The colon and rectum are the organs that make up the lower portion of your digestive system.
In this article, we’ll reveal the symptoms to look out for, the lifestyle (risk factor) that can likely sponsor the occurrence, treatment, and preventive measures.
Symptoms
Symptoms and signs may include one or more of the following:
- A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhoea or constipation, or the consistency of your stool.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool.
- Persistent abdominal discomforts, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
- A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely.
- Weakness or fatigue.
Risk factors
Increasing age is the most important risk factor for most cancers. Other risk factors for colon cancer include the following:
- a prior history of colon polyps
- a prior history of bowel diseases
- a family history of colorectal cancer
- having certain genetic syndromes, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- being of African or Ashkenazi Jewish descent
These are other risk factors you can avoid
- obesity
- being a smoker
- being a heavy drinker
- having type 2 diabetes
- having a sedentary lifestyle
- consuming a diet high in processed meats
Treatment
Treatment of colon cancer depends on a variety of factors. A diagnosis/ screening must be carried out to allow the doctor to determine the best treatment plan based on overall health and the stage of colon cancer. There is no single treatment for colon cancer, and options may include
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
The aim of treatment will be to remove cancer, prevent its spread, and reduce any uncomfortable symptoms.
Although the exact cause of this cancerous colon cell is unknown, taking into account the risk factors that can be controlled can be a significant preventive measure. People over the age of 45 should seek a diagnosis of colon cancer at a hospital because early detection can make all the difference.