MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS OFTEN REFER TO COLORECTAL CANCER, WHICH INCLUDES COLON CANCER THAT AFFECTS THE LARGE INTESTINE AND RECTAL CANCER THAT AFFECTS THE LOWERMOST PART OF THE LARGE INTESTINE.
ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, 1 IN 20 PEOPLE ARE AT A RISK OF DEVELOPING COLORECTAL CANCER DURING THEIR LIFETIME.
The exact cause of colorectal or bowel cancer is not known. However, it is believed to develop when healthy cells become abnormal and start growing in number and accumulate in the lining of the colon, forming polyps. Left untreated, polyps may become cancerous.
Several factors increase your risk of developing colon and rectal cancer, including aging …show more content…
As it can be difficult to treat colon cancer after it spreads to nearby areas, it is important to know what the early symptoms are. This can help you seek early treatment and give you a better chance of recovery.
Here are the top 10 warning signs of colon cancer you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Constipation
Constipation is an important sign of cancer in the colon. A 2011 study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention highlights the link between constipation and colorectal cancer risk.
An earlier 2004 study published in the European Journal of Cancer supported the hypothesis that constipation or laxative use increases the risk of colon cancer.
A tumor present at the far end of the colon can make it very difficult to eliminate waste products, thereby causing constipation.
If you persistently have fewer bowel movements per week, without any prior problem of constipation, consult your doctor to find out the exact cause.
2. DIARRHEA
IF YOU SUFFER FROM DIARRHEA FOR MORE THAN A COUPLE OF WEEKS, IT MAY BE AN EARLY SYMPTOM OF COLON …show more content…
7. Unexplained Anemia
Anemia refers to a low red blood cell count in the body. The hemoglobin in red blood cells carries oxygen throughout the body.
Symptoms of anemia, such as pale skin, a fast or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, and cold hands and feet, should not be taken lightly.
Unexplained anemia may be due to colon cancer. Typically, cancer in the right-side of the colon causes iron-deficiency anemia. This happens when tumors start bleeding slowly into the digestive tract, causing blood loss over time.
A 2008 study published in the British Journal of Cancer confirms a strong connection between anemia and cancer, with the risk rising as the hemoglobin level falls. This study also confirms iron deficiency as an independent predictor of cancer.
If you have signs of anemia, consult your doctor immediately to get your hemoglobin level checked.
8. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you are above the age of 50 and rapidly losing weight without any known reason, it is a cause for concern. Sudden, unexplained weight loss can indicate a serious health problem, including colon or rectal