Colon Cancer Prevention

Prevent Colon Cancer and Polyps Sadly, cancer of the colon can be quite advanced before being recognized. The effectiveness of cancer prevention lies in early detection, with subsequent removal of polyps before they become cancer. Often in situations where cancer has already grown and started to spread, the earlier the person is diagnosed with the disease, the better their chances of survival. Early detection will help reduce the chance of it spreading to other parts of the body.

Also read: Colon Cancer Symptoms

It is recommended that all people aged over 40 years are investigate their risk for developing colon cancer by having a digital rectal exam and a fecal blood smear. In the digital rectal exam, the doctor will place a finger within the rectum to determine the presence of tumors. A stool sample can also be used to test for the presence of blood within the stool. This is a vital test for cancer in the colon – the presence of fresh blood within the stool.

Another way to prevent colon cancer or detect it early is the recommendation to have a screening test at the age of fifty. Many people who reach fifty years will have at least a flexible sigmoidoscopy every three to five years to rule out the presence of colon cancer. These screening tests will help find any occurrence of cancer early. A flexible sigmoidoscopy can reduce the amount of people dying from colon cancer. During this screening test, a sigmoidoscope is inserted into the lower half of the colon and the rectum. It can detect any polyps or cancer in these areas. A colonoscopy is then conducted if any abnormalities are found.

Also read: Colon Cancer Treatment

Many health professionals are also recommending genetic testing for anyone who has a family history of colon cancer, to detect any mutations in their genes. This is especially true for anyone who has had a long history of intestinal disorders such as crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Other than genetic and medical screening tests, what is put into your digestive system can also help in cancer prevention.

People should change their eating habits by reducing fatty foods from their diet and ensuring they eat enough fiber. This includes having a clean colon with healthy intakes of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Especially eating food that will keep the colon regular is advantageous in possibly preventing colon cancer.