Do you have these symptoms when you poop? Then it may be colon cancer..!

Colorectal cancer, commonly known as colon cancer, is a serious health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. According to recent statistics, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, with an estimated 149,500 new cases and 52,980 deaths in 2021. It's important to note that colon cancer is a treatable and preventable disease, but early detection is key to successful treatment.

In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of colon cancer, how it develops, and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine( colon) or rectum.. Most colorectal cancers begin as small, non-cancerous growths called polyps that develop on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous if they are not removed.

Colon cancer can be classified into two main types: sporadic and hereditary. Sporadic colon cancer is the most common type and occurs as a result of changes (mutations) in genes that happen during a person's lifetime. Hereditary colon cancer, on the other hand, is caused by inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of developing cancer.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

The symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on the position and size of the cancer.. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have a combination of symptoms. Here are some of the common symptoms of colon cancer:

Changes in bowel movements: If you notice a change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or thin stools, it may be a sign of colon cancer.

Rectal bleeding: Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding may indicate colon cancer, especially if it's dark or tar-like.

Abdominal pain and discomfort: Cramping, bloating, or abdominal pain that doesn't go away can be a sign of colon cancer.

Weakness and fatigue: Colon cancer can cause anemia (low red blood cell count), which can lead to weakness and fatigue.

Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be a sign of colon cancer.

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor to rule out colon cancer.

How is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?

Colon cancer can be diagnosed through several tests, including:

Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a long, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon and rectum. During the procedure, your doctor can remove any polyps found and take tissue samples for biopsy.

Fecal occult blood test: This test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which may be a sign of colon cancer.

Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, and X-rays can be used to detect colon cancer and determine its size and location.

If colon cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will determine the stage of the cancer and develop a treatment plan based on the stage, size, and location of the cancer.

How to Prevent Colon Cancer?

While there is no surefire way to prevent colon cancer, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing it, including:

Get screened: The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colon cancer start getting screened at age 45, while those at increased risk should start earlier. Talk to your doctor about the screening options available to you.

Eat a healthy diet Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. It's also important to limit your intake of red and processed meats, which have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Aim for at least 30 twinkles of moderate- intensity exercise, similar as brisk walking, utmost days of the week.

Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. If you are overweight, losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your risk.

Quit smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, as well as many other types of cancer. still, talk to your croaker about ways to quit, If you bomb.

Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. If you choose to drink, limit your consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Know your family history: If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you may be at increased risk. Talk to your doctor about your family history and whether you need to start screening at an earlier age or more frequently.

In conclusion, colon cancer is a serious health issue that can be prevented and treated with early detection. still, talk to your croaker

If you witness any of the symptoms mentioned over. Remember to take steps to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer, such as getting screened regularly, eating a healthy diet, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and knowing your family history. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself from colon cancer and live a healthier life.