Early detection plays a significant role in improving outcomes for individuals diagnosed with colon cancer. Recognizing the common signs and understanding the risk factors associated with colon cancer can help individuals seek medical evaluation before the disease progresses. Here’s a closer look at the signs and risk factors for colon cancer:
Recognizing Early Signs
Monitor your body for these specific changes that may indicate colon cancer.
- A persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency, can indicate a problem.
- Rectal bleeding or finding blood in your stool is a common warning sign that requires attention.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain, may indicate a blockage or growth.
- A feeling that your bowel does not empty completely after a movement is a symptom reported by many patients.
- Weakness or fatigue that does not resolve with rest may indicate internal blood loss.
- Unexplained weight loss occurs without intentional dieting or exercise.
If you notice any of these issues, document them and discuss them with a healthcare provider immediately.
Identifying Risk Factors
Several factors can increase a person’s chance of developing colorectal cancer. Age is a primary risk factor, with risk increasing with age. Most diagnoses occur in individuals older than 50, but rates are increasing among younger adults. A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps also raises the risk level significantly.
People with a history of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, face a higher probability of developing the condition. Type 2 diabetes is another condition that is linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. You should contemplate these factors when assessing your personal health strategy with your doctor.
Seeking Medical Evaluation
You should seek medical attention if you experience specific, persistent symptoms. Here are key symptoms that necessitate a medical evaluation:
- Seek help if you see bright red or very dark blood in your stool, as this indicates bleeding in the digestive tract.
- A change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days warrants a visit to a doctor.
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain or cramping is a valid reason to schedule an appointment.
- Unexplained anemia or low red blood cell counts detected in routine blood work need investigation.
A doctor can determine if these symptoms are caused by colon cancer or another condition, making early evaluation is key.
Detecting Cancer Early
Screening tests are the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer or find it early. These tests screen healthy individuals without symptoms to prevent disease before it starts. A colonoscopy is a key procedure that allows physicians to visualize the entire colon and rectum.
During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to check the colon for polyps. The doctor inserts the instrument through the rectum and advances it to examine the lining; if polyps are found, they can be removed during the examination. This prevents the polyps from progressing to cancer. Current guidelines suggest that most people should begin screening at age 45, but individuals with a family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier.
Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer is a serious condition, but it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Awareness of the signs and risk factors helps you take control of your health, and screening remains the best way to prevent and detect them early. Contact a qualified gastroenterologist near you to schedule your colorectal cancer screening today.
