Colon cancer is the #2 cancer killer. Both men and women can get colon cancer, but it is more common for those over 50 years old. Regular colon testing can keep you from getting colorectal cancer, or detect it in it’s early stages when it is more easily cured. Testing may not cost you anything!
Even if you feel fine and actively pursue good health habits you are still at risk of getting colorectal cancer. Anyone over 50 should get regular colon tests.
Regular testing can help find non-cancerous colon polyps or early stage colon cancer. These are easily removed or treated.
Risk Factors
People who have a personal history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps have an elevated risk of developing colon cancer. Inflammatory bowel disease, or a family history of colon cancer or polyps are also risk factors. A family history of other cancers such as breast, ovarian or uterine cancer, may also raise your risk for colon cancer. For some unknown reason, African Americans and Ahkenazi Jews have higher rates of colorectal cancer.
Usually there are no symptoms for colon cancer in its early stages. As the cancer grows the symptoms may include rectal bleeding, stomach cramps, weight loss, tiredness or changes in bowel habits. If you have any of these symptoms you need to alert your doctor immediately to determine if colon cancer is the cause of your symptoms.
Reduce Your Risk
Find out your family history of cancer. Exercise at least 30 minutes per day. Eat at least 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each day. Avoid using tobacco. Only drink alcohol in moderation if you drink at all. Maintain your ideal body weight.
Colon Testing Options
Fecal Occult Blood Test. This annual test is a cheap, easy test that you can perform at home. No risk of bowel tears or infections are associated with this test. However, this test may not detect many polyps and some cancers. The cost is about $25.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. This test is given every 5 years and it is both safe and quick. There is a small risk of infection or bowel tears with this procedure, and it cannot see the entire length of the colon (usually about one third). The cost is about $150.
Barium Enema. This is a relatively safe test which is performed once every 5 years. It can miss small polyps and cancers and there are occasional false-positives.
Colonoscopy. This expensive procedure (about $1400) can view the entire length of the colon. It is performed once every 10 years, and allows doctors to take a biopsy tissue sample. Sedation is required for this procedure, as well as full bowel preparation. There is a higher risk of bowel tears or infections compared to other screening methods.
Colon testing can save your life and it isn’t as uncomfortable as it used to be. Visit your doctor to discuss your risk factors and setup a regular testing schedule.
Jonathan is a professional educator in the healthcare field with over 15 years of experience. You can visit his latest website which helps people find the best hair dryer for their needs, where you can learn about Tourmaline Hair Dryers.
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