Colon cancer is cancerous tumors in the lining of your large intestine. Studies indicate that your chances of developing colon cancer go up with:
- age ~ after 50
- family history
- ulcerative colitis
- previously had colon cancer
- polyps ~ nearly all colon cancers start as polyps
- women ~ history of ovarian, uterine or breast cancer
- diet ~ high in fat; low in calcium, folate and fiber; very low in fruits, vegetables
You may not experience any signs of colon cancer when it first develops. But as this cancer grows, some common signs and symptoms you should look for include:
- vomiting
- weight loss
- constant tiredness
- intestinal bleeding symptoms
- stools that are narrower than usual
- bowel movement frequency change
- bright red or very dark blood in the stool
- diarrhea, constipation or feeling bowel doesn’t empty completely
- general abdominal discomfort ~ frequent gas pain, bloating, fullness, cramps
Colon cancer can be prevented if polyps that lead to the cancer are detected and removed.
Also, you can lower your risk for colon cancer by adjusting your diet to a health promoting one. A prevention diet consisting of a high consumption of fruits and vegetables, while low in fats, especially animal.
