The colon is an extremely important organ in the body. This particular organ measures approximately four feet in length in the adult body. It is shaped in such a way that it resembles a tube. The colon has multiple functions. First, it is responsible for properly digesting and absorbing various nutrients from the solids and liquids that we consume. It helps produce feces by withdrawing the fluid from this substance. It then helps our bodies eliminate waste. When cells in the colon start to grow and function abnormally, this is called colon cancer.
Here, you will be introduced to five things you should know about colon cancer. Out of approximately every twenty adults in the United States alone, at least one will develop colon cancer. Any person, regardless of gender, nationality, and race can develop this kind of cancer. However, men are more likely to develop the condition. Many individuals actually die as a result of this form of cancer. We will now elaborate on five things you should know about colon cancer.
1)Colon cancer often becomes evident before the age of forty in the majority of the cases. However, medical professionals agree that this particular form of cancer can occur at any age. If you suspect that you may be at risk for this type of cancer, or you are exhibiting the symptoms that indicate possible complications with the colon, you should make an appointment to discuss your concerns with a medical professional.
2)There are many different situations which can indicate that an individual is at high risk for developing colon cancer. These risks include:
- Cases of colon cancer in an individual's family history
- Previous cases of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or cancer of the uterus in female's
- Smoking tobacco can greatly increase an individual's chance of developing this form of cancer
- Individual's who are overweight, or considered obese, generally have a higher chance of developing complications with the colon
- Many who take certain types of prescription medications may have a higher chance of developing this form of cancer
3)Individual's who develop colon cancer often exhibit a number of symptoms. We will outline these symptoms here:
- Bleeding is one of the most common symptoms. This may occur from the area of the rectum. The blood may be present in the stools.
- The sufferer may experience various levels of pain in the abdomen.
- Many suffer from vomiting and bouts of nausea.
- Colon cancer may lead to weight loss.
- Many may feel as if they are not done eliminating waste when using the restroom.
- There are many changes in the appearance of stools. They may appear thinner and look like strings.
4)There are a number of tests that can be completed to determine if an individual has colon cancer. The first type of test is a back exam of the rectum. Other tests include the colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, enema using air and contrast, and even a CT scan. These particular tests are used to identify the presence of colon cancer, if tumors are present, and the exact locations in which the colon cancer may have spread.
5)There are some treatments available for colon cancer that has proven to be effective in treating and curing the disease. One of the first forms of treatment includes having a single part, or the entire colon organ removed from the body. Many doctors may be able to remove simple abnormalities without having to go as far as to eliminate the colon altogether. However, continued care must be pursued if an individual has surgery for colon cancer.
- Chemotherapy is often used after surgery that is directly related to colon cancer. This is especially helpful if the cancer has spread to other locations within the body.
- Many individuals may elect to participate in radiation. Radiation is effective in two different ways. First of all, it can help to reduce the size of the abnormal growths in the body, and it can help to ensure that the colon cancer does not return after surgical treatment.
- Many individuals benefit from having a colostomy performed. The end of this tube is attached to the colon and the other end is an opening in the abdomen. A bag at this opening catches feces and other types of waste. However, this form of treatment is usually only done in severe circumstances.
As you can see, there are a number of important things that you should know about colon cancer. In this article, we have detailed the top five important details that you should know and understand regarding colon cancer. If you find that you are suffering from the symptoms associated with this form of cancer, it is important to seek medical advice immediately. It is important to not delay.
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