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Oncology

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow and multiply uncontrollably in the colon or rectum.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide. Most cases start with small tissue growths that can become cancerous over time; these are known as polyps and form on the inner wall of the colon or rectum.

Colon cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow and multiply uncontrollably in the colon or rectum. Today, colon cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, causing an estimated 900,000 deaths each year.

Although much remains to be understood about the disease, advances in detection and treatment have significantly improved survival rates as well as the quality of life for patients who develop any type of cancer.

 

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

There are several discomforts that can be related to colon cancer, however, the main warning signs are:

  • Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation

  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool

  • Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or gas

  • Unexplained weakness or fatigue

  • unexplained weight loss

  • Anemia (low iron levels in the blood)

It is important to note that, in many cases, colon cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages, so it is crucial that people at high risk (for example, people over the age of 50 or people with a family history of colon cancer) need to be screened regularly.


Diagnosis and treatment

Colon cancer is diagnosed using specific clinical studies such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and CT Scan.

At the moment a diagnosis with colon cancer is confirmed, the treatment must be evaluated and established by a specialist doctor, this procedure depends on the stage in which the cancer is found; however, some treatments may include:

  • Surgery

  • Radiotherapy

  • Chemotherapy

Or in some cases, a combination of these procedures must be performed.

 

Risk factor's

Colon cancer can affect men and women in the same way, but there are factors that can increase the risk of developing it. People most likely to develop the condition are those with:

  • Advanced age

  • Personal history

  • Inflammatory bowel conditions

  • hereditary syndromes

  • Family background

  • Low fiber diets/high fat diets

 

Similarly, there are daily activities that can influence the development of colon cancer:

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Diabetes

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Alcohol

  • Radiation therapy against cancer

 

How to prevent colon cancer?

You can reduce your chance of getting colon cancer by leading a healthy lifestyle. These behavior changes may include:

  • Diet changes such as eating more fiber and reducing your intake of red and processed meats

  • Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly

  • Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption

  • Get screening tests, such as colonoscopies, starting at age 50 or earlier if you have a family history of the disease

  • Treat and control inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, as they increase the risk of colon cancer


Prevention is the most important thing, so we recommend that you see a specialist if you suspect or have any symptoms related to colon cancer. BlueNetHospitals has highly prestigious oncology specialists who can help you with your questions.

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