Colon Cancer 101 - Guideline To Prevent Colon Cancer

In the past, colon cancer was a death sentence. Colon cancer patients had no idea they had this cancer until it was much too late. They would come to their doctors with Stage III or IV cancer, usually with bloody stools, abdominal pain, cramps, gas and overwhelming fatigue. Once the cancer had spread, there was little hope of controlling it. Today, much more is known about colon cancer risks, testing and treatment procedures.

There are many important risk factors for cancer of the colon that makes someone a good candidate for colon cancer screening. Age is one factor, as about 90% of people diagnosed with this cancer are over 50. People are also more at-risk if they have ever had colorectal cancer, polyps, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diabetes, acromegaly (a growth hormone disorder) or radiation therapy as part of another cancer treatment. Some studies have shown that a greater risk exists for people who eat diets low in fiber and high in fat/calories, or diets high in red meat/processed meats. Obese individuals and smokers have an increased chance of developing and dying from this type of cancer too. As with most health conditions, genetics also play a role in many cases.

Often times, the symptoms of colon cancer never show up until it's too late. Most colon cancer patients report a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. Some people notice rectal bleeding or bloody stools. It's common to feel persistent cramps, gas, abdominal pain, weakness and the feeling that the bowels aren't emptying completely. Some patients report sudden, unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Patients are advised to seek medical attention if there is a persistent change in bowel movements. People who are over 50 are urged to begin screening colonoscopy procedures regularly.

The American Cancer Society has issued some guidelines to prevent colon cancer. Once a person reaches 50, they should receive an annual fecal occult blood test, stool DNA testing, a flexible sigmoidoscopy and a double-contrast barium enema every five years, a colonoscopy every ten years and a virtual colonoscopy screening every five years. Additionally, certain lifestyle precautions are wise. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains; limit fat, specially saturated fat and red meat fat; take vitamins and minerals, especially B-6, calcium, folic acid and magnesium; limit alcohol consumption to no more than a drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men; quit smoking; get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days; and take an aspirin a day.