Healthy cells in the colon develop mutations in their DNA that accumulate together to form tumors, and over time, these cancer cells grow to invade and destroy normal tissues. usually nearby.
Although there is no specific cause behind the development of colorectal cancer and it is mostly found in people with no family history of colorectal cancer, about 1 in 3 people develop colorectal cancer. affected by this condition have other family members (parents, siblings or children) with the condition. had colorectal cancer.
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The cause of the increased risk is not clear, but it is higher if a close relative was diagnosed with cancer before age 50 or if more than one parent, sibling or child is affected.
Screening helps detect this cancer early, so if you have ever had colorectal cancer, you must inform your loved ones so they can conduct screening at the right age. Colorectal cancer presents a number of symptoms and risk factors that can help with early identification.
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer are persistently changing bowel habits, diarrhea or constipation, and stool changes; Bloody stools or rectal bleeding; Persistent abdominal discomfort such as cramping, bloating or pain, and weight loss.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer vary from patient to patient in terms of size and location in the large intestine. Some people with colon cancer do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
In addition to family history, there are other risk factors such as older age, personal history of noncancerous polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), sedentary lifestyle. , type 2 diabetes, obesity, and radiation therapy.
How can you prevent colon cancer yourself?
Doctors emphasize that there are a number of preventive measures you can take to prevent colon cancer. Including:
screening
Traditional colon cancer screening should be done every 10 years after age 45 before any signs or symptoms appear.
colonoscopy
This is a type of screening that uses an endoscope to obtain images of the colon and rectum. This method is considered the “gold standard” in colon cancer screening because of its accuracy and the ability that your doctor can remove the tumors at the same time.
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
This screening method uses light and a camera lens or sigmoidoscope to examine the colon. With this test, doctors can find microscopic blood stains that may not be visible during a normal bowel movement at home.
Lifestyle change
Drinking alcohol in moderation, limiting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly are some of the preventive measures that can help you reduce your risk of colon cancer.
Always remember prevention is better than cure. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, please follow preventive lifestyle changes to prevent it.
Source: Eurekalert
