How to check for 8 risk factors and signs of colon cancer
The saying “prevention is better than treatment” has stood the test of time. You can know about signs of a developing condition and take steps to make it more effective. Below we will explain the risk factors for colorectal cancer, their signs and what you can incorporate into your daily life, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and cancer diagnosis.
The American Cancer Society estimates that around 106,590 are new Colon cancer cases In the US in 2024
Mid-2024, the US Food and Drug Administration Blood tests for colorectal cancer have been approvedGives people a new, less invasive option for cancer screening. It is still offered in the doctor’s office, but Guardant Health (manufacturer of Shield Blood Test) announcement Covered by Medicare, it expands access to previous detection and cancer treatments to even more people. According to Guardant, it is approved for people over the age of 45 at average risk for disease.
What is colon cancer?
The colon is part of the large intestine. Here, colon cancer forms when polyps develop abnormally and form in cancer cells over time. According to Mayo Clinic, The polyp is small And there may be few symptoms. Regular screening is recommended, especially if there are risk factors or if they show signs of colon cancer.
According to Report from Yale Universitycolon cancer tends to grow differently in men compared to women. The incidence of colon cancer is lower among women, but it is also more likely to develop right-sided colon cancer, a more aggressive type of colon cancer.
Signs of colon cancer
- Changes in feces or stool consistency
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Blood in the stool
- Sudden weight loss
- Regular stomach pain, discomfort or convulsions
- The intestines do not empty
Risk factors for colon cancer
Increased risk factors for colon cancer include:
- You are over 50 years old
- Family history of colon cancer
- Chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Highly fatty and low fiber diets are insufficient
- alcohol
- smoking
- Inactive lifestyle
- obesity
How to reduce the risk of colon cancer
- Cancer Screening: The average person should start screening for colon cancer around the age of 45, but if risk factors are increasing, consider a previous screening.
- nutrition: Incorporates a variety of fruits, Vegetables and whole grains for your diet Reap their nutrients. Foods such as berries, grapes, broccoli and brown rice contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants Benefits of cancer prevention.
- Moderate smoke and drinks: You don’t need to Stop cold turkeyHowever, these habits should be practiced moderately to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
- exercise: Regular exercise It helps maintain a healthy body and weight, and reduces the risk of colon cancer. Aim for 150 minutes of activities per week, or 20-30 minutes each day.