7 Signs of Colon Cancer and How to Reduce Your Risk

Colorectal cancer is second most important reason deaths from cancer among men and women when combined. So far it’s most common among elderly peopleit can affect people of any age, race and gender.

According to the American Cancer Society, the incidence rate of colon and rectal cancer has been increases in people under 55 years of age since the mid-1990s, increasing by 1–2% annually.

Colorectal cancer screening may seem invasive to some people, but technology is starting to catch up. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved blood test for colorectal cancerproviding people with a new, less invasive cancer screening option.

Although it is still performed in a doctor’s office, Guardant Health, maker of the Shield blood test, announced that it is covered by Medicare, which will expand access to early detection and treatment of cancer for even more people. It is approved for people aged 45 and older, according to Guardant.

Knowing the signs and actively seeking medical help are critical to recovery from colon cancer. Below we will discuss the signs of colon cancer, its risk factors, and things you can include in your daily life to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

About colon cancer

The colon is part of the large intestine; Colon cancer forms here when there is abnormal growth of polyps that eventually turn into cancer cells. According to the Mayo Clinic, polyps are small and may cause few or no symptoms. Regular screening is recommended, especially if you have risk factors or signs of colon cancer.

According to Yale University reportColon cancer tends to develop differently in men compared to women. The incidence of colon cancer is lower among women, but they are also more likely to get cancer of the right side of the colon, a more aggressive type of colon cancer.

7 Signs of Colon Cancer

• Change in stool or stool consistency.
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Blood in the stool
• Sudden weight loss
• Regular stomach pain, discomfort or cramps.
• The intestines do not feel empty

Risk factors

Increased risk factors for colon cancer include:

• You are 50 years old or older
• Family history of colon cancer
• Chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
• Poor diet high in fat and low in fibre.
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity

Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Colon Cancer

1. Cancer screening: The average person should start screening for colon cancer around age 45, but consider screening earlier if you have increased risk factors.
2. Nutrition: Add different fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet to reap their nutrients. Foods such as berries, grapes, broccoli, and brown rice contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may have cancer prevention benefits.
3. Smoke and drink in moderation: You don’t have to quit cold turkeybut these habits should be practiced in moderation to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
4. Exercise: Regular exercise may help maintain a healthy body and weight, which reduces the risk of colon cancer. Aim for 150 minutes of activity per week, or 20 to 30 minutes per day.

Tips for a healthy lifestyle can be found here. how to improve gut health, six low-impact exercises you can do anywhere And “Exercise Snacks” You Can Easily Eat for Heart Health.