Cancer is usually termed as a fatal disease. However, fortunately, colon cancer is not exactly one of the life-threatening cancers. If detected early and treated timely, it can be cured. Then again, the sad part is that colon cancer does not produce any early symptoms, making early detection a bit difficult. However, understanding a few things about the condition can help you take preventive measures.
All about Colon Cancer
Colon cancer develops in the large intestine. It results from certain polyps that form in the inner lining of the large intestine. Premier General and Colorectal Surgery clinic is a perfect place for colon cancer screening shenandoah. Dr. Junuk Kim, MD, FACS, can recommend screening tests after the initial consultation. If surgery is required, he has extensive experience in advanced surgical approaches and thus can handle the same efficiently.
With timely screening tests, doctors can identify precancerous polyps before they turn cancerous. Fortunately, early treatment is now possible. As a result, fewer people are dying from colorectal cancer. However, the key is to detect cancerous polyps while there is still time.
Causes of colon cancer
Similar to other cancers, uncontrollable cell growth is what causes colorectal cancer. Then again, the exact reason someone might develop cancerous polyps is uncertain. Nevertheless, certain risk factors do increase the chances of developing colon cancer. Some of these risk factors include certain medical conditions, especially the inherited ones.
Symptoms
- Blood in or on the Stool
- Rectal Bleeding
- Pelvic Pain
- Changes in Bowel Habits (experiencing diarrhea, constipation, etc.)
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Anemia
- Loss of Appetite
- Unexplained Weight Loss and Feeling Weakness
Colon cancer screening
It is advised that healthy adults who don’t fall under the category of high-risk patients can generally start colon cancer screening at 45. However, if you are a high-risk patient, your doctor in Shenandoah may recommend starting screening at 40. Basic risk factors include:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Personal or family history of colon cancer
- Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome
There is no one rule when it comes to colon cancer screening. Your doctor may recommend getting it done at different intervals, depending on your condition. Nevertheless, regular screening till the age of 75 is recommended. After that, the frequency of screening is reduced.
Remember that colon cancer screening can reduce your chances of developing cancerous polyps and save your life. Therefore, follow the instructions given by your Shenandoah doctor when it comes to colon cancer screening.
