If you only read the first sentence of this blog, know that colon cancer is PREVENTABLE, treatable and beatable. Do NOT wait until you develop signs of colon cancer. Go get your screening colonoscopy. Screening colonoscopy in asymptomatic individuals is how precancerous polyps can be found and removed, and colon cancer can be prevented.
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine or colon. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, excluding skin cancer. It’s also the second leading cause of cancer death among both men and women combined.
According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, men and women have an almost equal risk of developing colorectal cancer at one in 23 and one in 25, respectively. The risk, in both genders, increases with age, with those above 50 being the most affected. However, the numbers are since changing, and 2% more people below 50 are developing colon cancer.
Given that colorectal cancer is becoming more common among young adults, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the US Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) recommend screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals and as recommended by your physician for those with a genetic disposition or family history of family cancer.
It isn’t easy identifying the early signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer since they don’t come right away. That’s why it’s advisable to go for screening as colon cancer should be preventable, treatable and beatable.
The signs and symptoms of colon cancer depend on what stage the cancer is during diagnosis.
While the early signs and symptoms of colon cancer aren’t obvious, here are some early signs that are of concern and should lead you to seeking out care from a gastroenterologist:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to get checked.
Anyone can develop colon cancer. However, some individuals are more susceptible to developing colon cancer than others. That’s why it’s best to discuss colon cancer screening and diagnosis with your physician if you have any of the factors below:
Other risk factors include:
Colon cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s in advanced stages. That’s why it’s advisable to get screening even before noticing or having any of the above signs and symptoms for easier diagnosis and thus treatment.
A colonoscopy is a test done using a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera attached at the end that allows the doctor or gastroenterologist to examine your colon and rectum for any abnormalities like polyps or cancer. The procedure is under anesthesia so you should not experience any discomfort.
When diagnosed early, colon cancer can be treated with much better success rate. Depending on your health status and stage of cancer, your doctor can recommend surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and FDA-approved drugs.
At Allied Digestive Health, we care about your wellbeing. We offer a range of cutting-edge gastrointestinal treatments and tests, including colonoscopy. Our team of highly skilled gastroenterologists is always ready to help you and get you back to your best shape.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us today for inquiries or to schedule a consultation.
If you have ulcerative colitis, you may have heard that it can raise your risk of colorectal cancer, and that can be worrying to think about. The reassuring reality is that most people with ulcerative colitis never develop colorectal cancer, and the tools to manage that risk are effective and well established
The abdominal pain and cramping of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can range from a nagging ache to a flare that stops you in your tracks. If you are searching for how to relieve IBS pain, the encouraging news is that there are both quick comfort measures for the moment and longer-term strategies that can reduce how often flares happen at all.
That tight, swollen, uncomfortable feeling that shows up after eating is one of the most common digestive complaints, and it can turn an enjoyable meal into hours of discomfort. The good news is that post-meal bloating is often very manageable once you understand what causes it.
For people living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food can feel like a minefield, with meals sometimes triggering abdominal pain, bloating, and unpredictable bowel habits. A structured elimination diet is one of the most evidence-supported ways to identify which foods drive those symptoms.
Your stool can reveal a surprising amount about your digestive health, and paying attention to it is one of the simplest ways to catch a problem early. While most changes in bowel habits are caused by diet, stress, or minor conditions, certain stool changes can be warning signs of colorectal cancer, one of the most common and most preventable cancers.
Protein is essential for energy, muscle, and overall health, but for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), how you get that protein can make the difference between a comfortable day and a flare.
If you have ever felt queasy during a bout of constipation, you are not imagining the connection. While constipation is usually thought of as a lower-digestive problem, it can also leave you feeling sick to your stomach, especially when it is severe or long-lasting.
Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are painful sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. These ulcers can cause significant discomfort and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Understanding the signs and symptoms of stomach ulcers is crucial for early detection and effective management.
A low-carb diet may offer relief for those struggling with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. While many individuals seek dietary solutions to manage IBS symptoms, understanding the role of carbohydrates is crucial.
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide. Characterized by chronic symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux, GERD can lead to significant health complications if left untreated.
Constipation is a common challenge for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly the IBS-C subtype. This condition affects millions globally, significantly impacting daily life. Understanding how to manage constipation effectively can improve quality of life for those struggling with IBS.
Please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Anu Sampat: (718) 227-1282