{"id":711,"date":"2020-04-18T09:09:29","date_gmt":"2020-04-18T09:09:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthnewscentral.com\/?p=711"},"modified":"2020-08-31T12:44:59","modified_gmt":"2020-08-31T12:44:59","slug":"23-signs-and-symptoms-of-colorectal-cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthnewscentral.com\/23-signs-and-symptoms-of-colorectal-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"23 Signs And Symptoms Of Colorectal Cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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AltaMed<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow erratically within the body. When this happens in the colon or rectum, the terminal ends of the gastrointestinal system, it is referred to as colorectal cancer or colon cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Men and women of all races can be at risk for colon cancer, most especially when they reach the age of 50 and above. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Colon cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in the United States; and the second deadliest among cancers that affect both men and women in the country. However, early screening and detection of colorectal cancer can prevent people dying from the disease. Colonoscopy, or the visual examination of the rectum and colon with the use of a scope, can find and remove polyps, which are abnormal growths that can turn cancerous in the long run. Early stage detection catches the disease when treatment works best, and 90% of patients diagnosed and treated early have been found to have a good chance of surviving the illness past 5 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Knowing and understanding the signs and symptoms that usually accompany colon cancer can give you a better chance of detecting the disease early. If you suspect that your symptoms mimic any of the 23 in this list, reach out to your doctor for a screening. <\/strong>
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1. Unexplained Weight Loss<\/strong>
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Diabetes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Most of us rejoice when we shed a few pounds, but the sudden, unexplained weight loss that often accompanies colon cancer is something that should cause alarm, especially if you haven\u2019t changed anything in your diet or your daily activities. Make sure to give your doctor a visit to find out what\u2019s causing you to lose weight without any conscious effort. While there can be other reasons for weight loss such as stress and fatigue, knowing what exactly is causing it can give you peace of mind. A 10-pound loss in weight in a short period of time without deliberate actions should be reason enough to get tested for colorectal cancer or other possible causes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

2. Low-Caliber Stool<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The List<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Your stool can hold clues as to what is going on inside your body. A person\u2019s general health can be learned from how his or her stool looks, which is why pediatricians tell parents to check and inspect their children\u2019s soiled diapers regularly. When kids are unable to tell their parents exactly how they feel, their stool oftentimes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

complete the story of their overall wellbeing. In adults, thin, stringy stool may come as a result of not enough fiber in the food that they eat. However, in some cases, low caliber stool can be an ominous sign of a more serious underlying condition. Normally, stools average in size between one to two inches in diameter, with consistency varying between loose and solid. Abnormal growths inside the colon or rectum  make the passage of stool narrower, decreasing their caliber. While thin stools can be a sign of colon cancer, the absence of other symptoms often signify a lower chance of them being due to colon cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

3. Rectal Bleeding<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nKenneth Brown, MD\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the most common signs of colon cancer is the presence of fresh, bright red blood in the stool, which signifies rectal bleeding. While bleeding can be visible most of the time, with red spots in the toilet following bowel movement, it can also be invisible, which is why lab tests are important as they can detect the tiny amounts of blood not seen by the naked eye. The more the blood there is in the stool gives clues as to how far along the disease is. It can also approximate where in the intestinal tract the tumor is located. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

People with hemorrhoids also experience bloody stools, however, healthcare professionals will be able to tell what exactly is causing the bleeding, which is why it is always recommended to see an expert as soon as you find evidence of blood in your feces. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

4. Tarry, Black Stool (Melena)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nVetstream\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Not all blood in the stool is red. Bleeding can also be signaled by foul smelling, tarry, black stools, which means that there could be bleeding higher up in the intestinal tract or in the ascending colon. If you haven\u2019t consumed dark colored food such as red wine, squid ink, or blood, all of which can stain stools and give it the same appearance of melena; or if you don\u2019t have a history of stomach ulcers, black stools might be a sign of underlying colon cancer. Consult your doctor immediately if you think there shouldn\u2019t be a reason for you to have dark stools in order to get to the bottom of what\u2019s causing it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

5. Cramping, Rectal Pain (Tenesmus)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nMedical News Today\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The cramping, rectal pain, similar to when you feel the need to move your bowel, is medically known as tenesmus. Patients with colorectal cancer usually feel this type of pain as a result of blockage caused by the cancerous tumor. The urge to empty the bowel despite it not being full also makes patients strain harder during bowel movements. It is advised to consult your doctor if you have difficulty passing stool. While it may be due to constipation or hemorrhoids, difficulty in moving your bowel can also be a sign of colorectal cancer, which might need surgical intervention to relieve tenesmus. Chemotherapy as well as radiation therapy might also be recommended in order to make sure that all abnormal cells are eradicated, thus preventing other tumors from growing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

6. Unexplained Iron Deficiency Anemia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nLive Science\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Anemia, defined, is the presence of a red cell count and hemoglobin count on blood exam that is lower than normal. It is one of the more common symptoms of colorectal cancer and is often linked to complications of the disease. While anemia can directly be caused by radiation and chemotherapy used in the treatment of cancer, it can also be due to a variety of factors. Depending on the type, anemia can paint a picture as to whether or not a patient may or may not have colon cancer. 
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The type of anemia most commonly linked to cancer is Iron Deficiency Anemia, which can sometimes be overlooked by doctors. Almost 1 in 7 people all over the world has some form of iron deficiency anemia, making it very widespread. It can come as a natural result of menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding, or it can also arise from serious underlying disease such as colon cancer. Studies show that almost \u2153 of people diagnosed with cancer will have low hemoglobin or low red cell count at the time of diagnosis, while \u2154 of cancer patients say that their anemia began during treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should your blood test show signs of anemia, do not hesitate to ask your doctor if he thinks there is a need to dig deeper into what is causing it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

7. Persistent Abdominal Pain Or Discomfort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nToday Show\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Abdominal pain is probably one of the most common complaints encountered by physicians in their practice. While this is true, it should not be simply set aside since it could signify a more serious disease such as colon cancer. Most people often attribute their stomach discomfort to gas, indigestion or a case of stomach flu. Some even self-medicate to save a trip to the doctor. Any abdominal illness can cause abdominal pain, and when the discomfort becomes persistent with no relief from over the counter medication, the more you should make time to see your doctor. Colorectal tumors can obstruct the normal passage of stool and gas through our intestines, which then lead to cramping and bloating, which are symptoms of a change in bowel habits. The more severe and sudden the onset of your abdominal pain is, the more serious its underlying cause is, so make it a point to seek medical help immediately for a possible workup for cancer.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

8. Localized Symptoms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nHealth Essentials – Cleveland Clinic\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms that only affect the colon and rectum oftentimes signify early stages of the disease as these indicate that the cancer has less likely spread to distant organs. Some examples of localized symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, bowel habit changes, rectal bleeding, tenesmus, low-caliber stools and bloating, which are mainly due to obstruction from a growing tumor. Experiencing several, if not all, of these possible signs at the same time for a prolonged period should nudge you to make an appointment with your doctor immediately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

9. Nausea<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nWellcare \n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Most conditions and diseases affecting the gastrointestinal system present with nausea, which is a physiological reaction of the body to unwanted physical, chemical or infectious agents. The colon and rectum, being organs highly-involved in the passage of waste material coming from digested food, can also cause nausea when afflicted with cancer. In most cases, colorectal tumors wreak havoc on the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal system, particularly when they obstruct the natural passage of stool, causing the buildup of gas or the backing up of waste. When this happens, patients find it difficult to keep down any food, resulting in abdominal discomfort,and bloating, making patients feel sick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

10. Vomiting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nBusiness Insider\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Just like any gastrointestinal problem, colorectal cancer can cause vomiting too. The organs, which are involved in the passing and evacuation of waste material coming from digested food, fail to perform properly no thanks to the obstruction caused by abnormal cancer cells that affect the normal transit of stool within them. This results in gas formation, malabsorption, increased acid production, and reflux, causing a patient to feel ill. When this happens, the body attempts to get rid of the offending agent, and it does that by vomiting or expelling stomach contents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hampering of  the passage of food through the gastrointestinal system, prevents the patient from keeping food down, which eventually leads to vomiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

11. Jaundice<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Fine Art America<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Jaundice is a medical term that refers to a condition wherein a person\u2019s skin and eyes (particularly the sclera or the white portion of the eyeballs) become yellowish. While jaundice usually affects people with hepatitis, gallstones and other conditions of the liver and gallbladder, it can also be a sign of colorectal cancer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When red blood cells breakdown, a yellowish-orange pigment called bilirubin is produced. This pigment is excreted from the body in any of two ways: via urine in the form of urobilinogen which gives pee that yellow color; or via stool in the form of stercobilinogen which gives feces its brown color. However, before bilirubin is excreted via stool, it first becomes metabolized by the liver into bile which is then stored in the gallbladder prior to being released into the gut via the common bile duct<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When colorectal cancer spreads systemically to the liver, the resulting tumor can affect the organ\u2019s function, impeding its ability to clear bile normally. The resulting buildup of bilirubin as well as the accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream normally filtered out by the liver, ultimately leads to jaundice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you notice a yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes, make sure to see a doctor immediately so that you can be evaluated as to what is causing it in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

12. Weakness And Fatigue<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Dave’s NONI & Juice Pvt. Ltd.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Weakness or generalized fatigue resulting from colorectal cancer, its symptoms and its treatment can affect a patient both physically and mentally. Many people most of the time dismiss their feeling tired, often thinking it as a result of poor sleep or overwork. What they don\u2019t know is that it can be a sign of serious underlying problems, cancer being one of them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the colon and rectum fail to perform their functions the way they should, body processes become affected in many ways. Digestion can be impaired due to the backing up and accumulation of waste in the large intestine, Blood toxin levels can go up as a cause of cancer spread to the liver, Dehydration can also result since it is in the colon that water is absorbed by the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All of these cause fatigue, which can lead to sleeping problems and anxiety; and since one can only take too much, many patients fall into depression as a result of feeling trapped by the disease and the treatment needed to combat the disease. Since depression too can cause fatigue, the dangerous cycle continues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you feel that you are in a state of hopelessness, accompanied by symptoms found on this list, consult a healthcare professional immediately. It might not be due to colorectal cancer, but knowing what\u2019s causing it puts you in a better spot than being in the dark about your disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

13. Changes In Bowel Habits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Bel Marra Health\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bowel habits vary from person to person which means that only you can determine whether or not your movements have changed. Significant deviations from your normal, such as an increase or a decrease in frequency, that you might feel unusual should be taken note of. Typically, bowel movements of once a day to once every two days are considered normal, but again, this is subjective as only you can determine what to you is regular. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The appearance and consistency of stools should also be assessed as these can also indicate an underlying problem.  Normally, stools average in size between one to two inches in diameter, with consistency varying between loose and solid. The presence of fresh blood or tarry black stools should be an indication to seek medical consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

14. Diarrhea<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nTimes of India\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another colon cancer symptom is chronic diarrhea, the frequent passing of loose, watery or oily stool which can come as a result of systemic spread or can be due to the radiation or chemotherapy treatments used to battle the disease. Surgical resection to remove portions of the colon or rectum affected with cancer can also lead to diarrhea, which is why the condition is common in colorectal cancer patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Severe diarrhea is dangerous as it can lead to electrolyte loss, preventing vital tissues in the body such as heart muscles and skeletal muscles from properly working. If you are experiencing diarrhea, be sure to visit your doctor at once to prevent complications and to better assess what it is that could be causing your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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15. Constipation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nCrohn’s & Colitis UK\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another colon cancer symptom is constipation Constipation happens when bowel movements decrease in frequency and stools become a challenge to get rid of. It often comes as a result of dietary changes as well as poor fiber intake, however, there are diseases that are known to be associated with constipation, colorectal cancer being one of them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oftentimes, constipation in colon cancer is accompanied by severe pain and blood in stool which should signal you to see a doctor. While obstruction caused by a growing tumor in the colon or rectum adds to the difficulty of passing stool, constipation is also associated with radiation or chemotherapy in the treatment of the disease,  if your constipation persists for more than 3 weeks, a visit to the doctor is advised in order to prevent complications and to find out the real cause of your condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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16. Abdominal Or Rectal Lump<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\neMedicineHealth\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Studies have shown that almost 25% of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer present with a rectal mass, while 12.5% of cases present with a lump in the abdomen. The presence of lumps are associated with changes in bowel habits as well as obstructive symptoms, particularly with cancers that wrap around the bowel. The diagnosis of a bowel tumor is usually done with special imaging  procedures such as an abdominal ct scan or a colonoscopy, which visualizes the inner walls of the colon and rectum. There are some cases of incidental findings of a mass following digital rectal examinations of patients. If you are experiencing symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, a visit to a specialist is advised in order to properly ascertain whether or not a mass is present that may need proper surgical intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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17. Incomplete Evacuation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Health24<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Obstructive symptoms associated with colorectal cancer, particularly due to growing tumors, are known to persist and increase in severity unlike those caused by other bowel illnesses such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn\u2019s Disease, which disappear during remission. Patients with colorectal cancer  often experience an inability to completely clear their bowels when they go to the bathroom, which is not only worrisome for them but also quite uncomfortable. Repeated visits to the loo can be tedious, and the straining, in an effort to pass stool, can also potentially cause bleeding. It is always best to seek professional help in order to have the condition assessed properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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18. Weakened Bones<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Conversation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Metastasis, or the spread of cancer from the original tumor to other parts of the body, can cause symptoms that you might assume as unrelated, given the distance of the symptom from the primary lesion. When colorectal cancer spreads to the bones, patients experience weakening of the otherwise sturdy structures. These weakened bones can lead to breaks or fractures, even in the absence of trauma. The most common sites for colorectal cancer bone metastasis include the spine, the hips, the arms and the legs. So if you feel unusual pain, or suffer from a fracture despite lack of an injury or trauma which is really suspect, consult your doctor so that he or she can assess for underlying conditions such as colorectal cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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19. Increased Calcium In Blood (Hypercalcemia)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Medlife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Our bones and teeth contain the highest concentration of the mineral Calcium in our body. A small fraction of the body\u2019s calcium stores, approximately 1%, circulates in the blood. Aside from making our teeth and bones sturdy, calcium also plays vital roles in various bodily processes, such as muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and brain function. While very essential to the body\u2019s well-being, excessive amounts of the mineral can also be harmful, and this can come as a result of metastatic colorectal cancer. When colon cancer cells make their way to the bones, they cause abnormal calcium resorption, making bones weak. This extra amount of calcium makes its way into the blood, overworking the kidneys where the mineral accumulates and forms stones. Heart muscle contraction is also affected, causing abnormal heart rhythm as well as heart attacks. Too much calcium can also cause loss of consciousness, and in severe cases, coma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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20. Shortness Of Breath<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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lifealth<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A grave sign of colorectal cancer is shortness of breath, which can be a sign of cancer spread to the lungs, causing poor oxygenation due to involvement of the lung structure. Anemia, which is a common symptom of colorectal cancer, can also cause oxygen starvation to the body as a result of low levels of hemoglobin which is needed to transport oxygen to the cells. Furthermore, cancer treatment also renders the body immunocompromised, which prevents the body from battling infections, particularly pneumonia. Lastly, metastasis also causes fluid to accumulate in the surrounding structures of the lungs, impeding their ability to expand, causing labored breathing in patients with metastatic colon cancer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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21. Edema<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Qopo\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Swelling of the feet and hands caused by the buildup of fluids in the body\u2019s tissues is called edema, and can be caused by colon cancer too. Patients may experience swelling, redness and tenderness in the legs as a result of venous blockage caused by blood clots that form in the deep veins of the legs. The clots cause blood flow to slow down, causing fluid to accumulate in the tissues. When too much fluid accumulates, legs start to swell, causing pain, tenderness and inflammation. Symptoms usually happen in the late stage of the disease, when the liver is involved after colorectal cancer spreads to the organ. Noticing these changes early can help doctors address it quicker and prevent more serious complications from happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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22. Bloating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nABC News\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another symptom caused by obstruction resulting from growing colorectal tumors is bloating. The process of digesting food involves bacteria, which help break down complex sugars into more absorbable forms. In the process, gas is created, which is normally passed up to 23 times a day. When the passage of gas is hampered, it begins to accumulate in the gut, giving the patient a feeling of bloatedness. Another way colon cancer causes bloating is when it spreads to nearby lymph nodes. The lymphatic system is known to transport absorbed lipids or fat from the gut. Blockage of the lymph nodes therefore also results in the poor absorption digested fat in the intestine, again causing gas to form, hence the bloating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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23. Altered Mental State<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\nWfsu\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Colorectal cancer metastasis to the brain or spinal cord causes neurological symptoms to surface in patients with advanced stages of the disease. Patients may experience confusion, irritability and sometimes, psychological symptoms such as hallucinations. Close relatives and companions of patients might notice lapses in cognitive function, particularly in performing tasks that would otherwise be easy for a patient to do. Others might even notice a patient not being able to recognize faces, or remember names. While this is a late symptom of the disease, being aware of it can still be of much help, especially in making patients more comfortable during the end stages of the disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colon Cancer Fact No.1: Colorectal Cancer Does Not Discriminate Sex<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Gooden Center<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While colon cancer affects both men and women, statistics show that men are almost 10% more prone to having the disease than women. Certain risk factors pertaining to lifestyle choices differ among genders, which might explain the higher risk of developing colorectal carcinoma in men and these include obesity, lack of physical activity, low vitamin D, and increased consumption of red meat.
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Both genders, however, have been noted to experience the same symptoms of the disease, particularly the localized signs such as hematochezia or bloody stool, changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain. Both men and women also experience fatigue, dyspnea or difficulty breathing and anemia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colon Cancer Fact No. 2: Colorectal Cancers have the Second Highest Death Toll in the US<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Gastroenterology Consultants<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Colon cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in the United States; and the second deadliest among cancers that affect both men and women in the country. In 2019, over 140,000 new cases of colon cancer were reported, 51,000 of which or roughly over 30% dying from the disease. Colon cancer only comes second as the deadliest form of cancer compared to Lung carcinoma, which was estimated to have killed over 140,000 Americans in 2019 alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colon Cancer Fact No. 3: Colon Cancer Affects Adults Aged 50 Years and Older.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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startsat60<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

They say, \u201cyouth is wasted on the young,\u201d which couldn\u2019t be any more true with colon cancer. Most of us live fast paced lives in our youth, which catches up with us as we grow older. Once we reach the age of 50, the chances of us getting colon cancer increases, a good reason to start getting check ups more often in order to be sure that we catch illnesses at their earliest, when they respond most to treatment. Cancer screening, even in the absence of symptoms, helps us get a good picture of our overall health, and also gives us a better chance of beating the disease in the event we get diagnosed with it.
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Colonoscopy, or the visual examination of the rectum and colon with the use of a scope, can find and remove polyps, which are abnormal growths that can turn cancerous in the long run. Early stage detection catches the disease when treatment works best, and 90% of patients diagnosed and treated early have been found to have a good chance of surviving the illness past 5 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colon Cancer Fact No. 4: There Is An Increasing Incidence of Colon Cancer in Adults Under 50<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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UPI\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In recent years, an increase in incidence of colon cancer in adults under the age of 50 has been observed, contrasting the unusual drop in numbers among adults 50 and above. The drop in cases for older adults can be attributed to better diagnostics available presently, catching the disease in its early stages easier, allowing them to get treatment even before symptoms become severe. Furthermore, older adults have become more conscious of their health, switching to better choices, thus, decreasing their likelihood of getting sick.
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Younger individuals on the other hand have it more difficult. Early onset colorectal cancer has been found to be typically more aggressive and is diagnosed later in the disease. Experts suggest that the type of cells responsible for early onset colorectal carcinoma is different compared to that which affects older adults, hence the variation in presentation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Colon Cancer Fact No. 5: Major Types of Colorectal Cancer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Consult QD – Cleveland Clinic<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The most common type of colorectal cancer is andenocarcinoma, which forms in the mucus secreting glands of the body such as those found in the colon and rectum. The lubricating glands of the colon and rectum are the most susceptible, which is why patients experience rectal bleeding. Typically adenocarcinomas are diagnosed by taking tissue samples from the site also known as a biopsy, or via diagnostic imaging modalities such as CT or MRI scans. The other types of colorectal cancer are: Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors, which develop in neuroendocrine cells that function as hormone production regulators; Primary colorectal lymphomas, which is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that start out in white blood cells called lymphocytes; Gastrointestinal stromal tumors, that form in theinterstitial tissues of the stomach, small intestine, as well as the rectum; Leiomyosarcomas which are found in the smooth muscle fibers of the colon and rectum; And finally, melanomas, which is a type of skin cancer that can also find its way into the gastrointestinal system.
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Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow erratically within the body. When this happens in the colon or rectum, the terminal ends of the gastrointestinal system, it is referred to as colorectal cancer or colon cancer. 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