Cancer of the colon is the 3rd most common cancer in the USA. More than 150,000 people are diagnosed annually with the disease, with more than third eventually dying
Colon cancer is most common in people over age 50; but it can strike younger people – even children, as well.
Though a number of factors can be responsible for causing a person to develop colon cancer, the most common are dietary, particularly for those who consume large amounts of red meat and fatty dairy products. Colon cancer usually occurs when small nodules, known as polyps, begin to grow in the lower sigmoid colon. If not detected and removed, these polyps can eventually become malignant and begin to grow in size, eventually spreading outside the colon and into other body organs, including the liver.
The disease can strike anyone from all walks of like, as U.S. President George Bush is probably aware of, when no less than 8 small benign polyps were discovered recently when he underwent a Colonoscopy procedure. In a Colonoscopy, a special tube-like apparatus with fiber optic cameras is inserted into the colon via the rectum, and any abnormalities such as polyps are detected and removed. If a larger growth, indicating cancer is discovered, it may become necessary to remove a large section of the colon in a surgical procedure known as a Colostomy.
Symptoms of colon disorders which could indicate cancer include a marked changed in bowl habits such as diarrhea or constipation, a full or bloated feeling, chronic fatigue and sudden weight loss, and feelings of nausea with vomiting. Blood in the stools and severely darkened stools may also be a strong sign of the disease.
Though other colon problems may be indicated by these symptoms, the likelihood of colon cancer, especially for persons over age 50, is reason enough for having a periodic Colonoscopy procedure performed. Persons who have previously been found to have polyps in the colon should have a Colonoscopy done every three years, with annual or semi annual tests for occult blood samples.
Change of diet to foods containing high amounts of fiber or ‘roughage’ is highly recommended, along with reduction of meat and dairy, fats, alcohol, and either fried or grilled goods – especially over charcoal. Assuming a more natural diet of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, is an excellent way to reduce the likelihood of colon cancer. These measures due not eliminate the possibility of contracting the disease, however, as other factors, including genetic ones, may be responsible. If you have family members who have come down with colon cancer, especially ones who died from the disease, having a Colonoscopy performed at regular intervals may eventually save your life.
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