The colorectal cancer, commonly known as colon cancer, is the second most common malignant tumor in mortality. Annually, nearly 4500 people are diagnosed with this type of cancer out of which over 3000 cases end up fatally. Both male and female between 50-74 are the most affected categories of people.
Causes for Colon Cancer
Even though the exact cause remains unknown, the heritable factors, lifestyle, and nutrition are one of the factors that contribute to its development.
The low physical activity, obesity, smoking, alcohol, and diet rich in fats and red meat are the major risk factors.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
- Weight Loss
- Bleeding while Digestion
- Abdominal Pain
- Anemia
- Change in Colon Movements
How to Detect Colon Cancer in its Early Phase?
Screening or early detection of colon cancer includes testing healthy peoples without any visible symptoms. This is done in order to detect any symptom, such as the polyps which are known to precede the colon cancer.
The polyps are benign growth in the inner part of the colon. However, some polyps may experience malignant change as well. The duration of the transition from benign to malignant changes is measured in years.
However, it is important to note that early detection of the colon cancer contributes to successful prevention of its development.
The screening varies and can be performed in several ways. The most common and preferred way is the testing fecal samples for the presence of blood, which is invisible to the eye. This is basically the first sign of colon cancer or polyp.
As mentioned above, people between 50-74 are the most susceptible ones. That is the reason why they are highly recommended to make tests of hidden bleeding.
However, a positive test doesn’t necessarily have to indicate existence of colon cancer. It is advised to do a colonoscopy in order to detect what lies behind the bleeding.
