The colon is another term for the large intestine, it is the lowest part of the digestive system. Inside the colon, water and salt from solid wastes are extracted before the waste moves through the rectum and exits the body through the anus.
Colon cancer or colorectal cancer starts in the large intestine or in the rectum. It is treatable when caught early, but it’s still the third most common type of cancer in men and women in the United States. Most colorectal cancers begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids, causing a tumor to form in the lining of the large intestine. Being aware of the risk factors, signs and symptoms of this cancer is important for prevention and early detection.
Normal cells in the body follow an orderly path of growth, division, and death. Cancer is ultimately the result of cells that uncontrollably grow and do not die. Programmed cell death is called apoptosis, and when this process breaks down cancer results. Colon cancer cells do not die in the normal way, but instead, continue to grow and divide. Although scientists do not know exactly what causes these cells to behave this way, they have identified several potential risk factors:
Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
An early diagnosis can often lead to a complete cure, but there are several risk factors to be aware of. Risk factors include:
- Being overweight – being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women.
- Physical inactivity – increasing your level of physical activity lowers your risk. Regular to moderate exercise will help keep your heart and body healthy.
- Diet – Diets that are higher in fruits, vegetables and whole grains have been linked with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Lowering your red and processed meat intake may also lower your risk.
- Alcohol – several studies have found a higher risk of colorectal cancer with increased alcohol intake, especially among men.
- Polyps – Colon cancer usually derives from precancerous polyps that exist in the large intestine. The most common types of polyps are:
- Adenomas: can become cancerous but are usually removed during colonoscopy
- Hyperplastic polyps: rarely become colon cancer
- Inflammatory polyps: usually occur after inflammation of the colon (colitis) and may become cancerous
- Genes – Cells can experience uncontrolled growth if there is damage or mutations to DNA, and therefore, damage to the genes involved in cell division. Cancer occurs when a cell’s gene mutations make the cell unable to correct DNA damage and unable to commit suicide. Similarly, cancer is a result of mutations that inhibit certain gene functions, leading to uncontrollable cell growth. Cancer can be the result of a genetic predisposition that is inherited from family members. It is possible to be born with certain genetic mutations or a fault in a gene that makes one statistically more likely to develop cancer later in life.
- Blood in your stool or bleeding from your rectum — Any amount or color of bleeding can be an early sign, so make sure you see a health care professional right away if you are experiencing this symptom.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- An ongoing bloated feeling, cramping or pain in your abdomen.
- Constant tiredness and weakness.
- A change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days, such as diarrhea, constipation or narrow stools.
- A feeling that doesn’t subside that you need to have a bowel movement, even after you’ve gone to the bathroom.
- Jaundice (a yellow or green coloring of the skin and the white part of the eye).
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