Colon Cancer: Causes Symptoms Treatment and Prevention

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of survival for those diagnosed with colon cancer.

The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine, which is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from food and forming and excreting feces. The colon is divided into four sections: the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon. The rectum is the last portion of the large intestine before the anus.

Risk factors for colon cancer include a family history of the disease, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and obesity.

There are several screening tests available to detect colon cancer early, including the fecal occult blood test, the stool DNA test, and colonoscopy. The fecal occult blood test checks for blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colon cancer. The stool DNA test looks for DNA changes in the stool that can indicate cancer. Colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening test for colon cancer, as it allows the doctor to visually inspect the entire colon and remove any suspicious growths or polyps.

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Symptoms of colon cancer may include a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, abdominal pain or cramping, and weight loss. However, many people with colon cancer do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

If colon cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are greatly improved. Treatment options for colon cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer and involves removing the cancerous portion of the colon and any nearby lymph nodes. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

In addition to medical treatment, there are several lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. These include eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, and quitting smoking.

In summary, colon cancer is a serious disease that affects the colon and rectum. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of survival for those diagnosed with the disease. Risk factors for colon cancer include a family history of the disease, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables. Screening tests, such as the fecal occult blood test, the stool DNA test, and colonoscopy, can detect colon cancer early. Treatment options for colon cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking, can also help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Colon Cancer: Causes Symptoms Treatment and Prevention

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