The incidence of colon cancer seen in people between the ages of 20-49 is on the rise. Although it is unknown exactly why colon cancer numbers are increasing in young people, it is important to be aware of early signs and symptoms, risk factors, and possible ways to prevent and treat colon cancer.
Abnormal changes in the colon, the largest part of the large intestine of the digestive system, can lead to colon cancer.
Image Source: Science Photo Library – SCIEPRO
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the overgrowth of cells that appear in the colon or the rectum over time. Most of the time, colon cancer starts off as non-cancerous growths called colon polyps that grow in the inner linings of the colon wall. As the polyps continue to grow, they can develop into cancerous cells, leading to colon cancer.
Early Warning Signs
With many cancers, people may not have noticeable signs and symptoms initially. However, when symptoms of colon cancer begin to manifest, the type and severity of symptoms depend on the location and size of the cancer. The most common early warning sign is the change in bowel movements, which includes having prolonged diarrhea, constipation, noting traces of blood in stools, or rectal bleeding. Other signs and symptoms include constant abdominal pain and discomfort, unexpected weight loss, and fatigue.
Risk Factors
There are many red flags in people’s lifestyles that may increase the risk of developing colon cancer. Possible reasons that colon cancer is on the rise in young individuals include being less active, eating foods that are high in fat and low in fiber, being overweight, smoking, having heavy and constant alcohol consumption. In addition to lifestyle choices, family history of colon cancer and having gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk.
Prevention is Key
The most effective way to prevent the risk of colon cancer is to take control of your own health by making healthier lifestyle choices and by getting regular medical checkups. It is important to connect with and speak to clinicians who can lead you in the right direction, such as encouraging you to complete the colonoscopy process. With a colonoscopy, doctors are able to examine the colon through a scope and detect any polyps for removal. Although the screening age for colorectal cancer is 45, it is important to speak to your doctor if you are having any of the prior symptoms, prolonged or not, at an earlier age. Detecting colon polyps or colon cancer earlier can lead to initiating better treatment earlier with better success.
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