Colon Cancer Symptoms, Warning Signs and Risk Factors

Every year, as many as 100,000 and 40,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer and rectal cancer, respectively. These two cancers are part of a group of cancers collectively known as colorectal cancers. The causes of these cancers is not fully understood. Often, the first sign is benign polyps shaped like mushrooms in the intestines, which in some cases become cancerous causing the healthy cells to quickly reproduce forming tumors.

Often, people with colon cancer do not immediately notice symptoms. The first symptoms they notice usually include frequent constipation or diarrhea, stomach pain, cramping, and frequent abdominal gas. The symptoms may get worse as time goes on, eventually leading to rectal bleeding and bloody stool that can come from straining or from lesions, sudden weight loss, and feeling tired all the time. These symptoms could indicate any number of illnesses so that is why you need to see your doctor to determine if you have colorectal cancer.

There are many risk factors for colon cancer. As you age, your risks go up. About 90% of the people diagnosed with colon cancer are at least 50 years old. People with colitis or Crohn's or other illnesses are more likely to develop colon cancer. A family history of colon cancer also increases your risks of developing the illness as does having diabetes. Other risk factors are controllable.

Your diet can increase your risk of getting colon cancer especially if you consume a lot of fat and little fiber. There is a lot of research being done to determine if red meat and processed meats increase the risk of developing colon cancer. Scientists do know that more people in Western Europe and in the United States develop colorectal cancers, which they believe is related in some way to diet.

Another risk factor is obesity, which is something that can be controlled by diet and exercise. When people who are obese develop colon cancer, they are at a higher risk of dying from the disease than someone who is a healthy weight. Smoking and drinking in excess also increase your risks of developing colon cancer.

The tests that screen patients for colon cancer are relatively painless and include a stool blood test. The more involved testing methods include a colonoscopy, which can cause some discomfort,s and a barium enema before an X-ray in order to look for tumors or polyps. Early detection is the key to successfully treating colon cancer and recovering from the illness.