Colon Rectal Cancer Facts

Colon rectal cancer facts are hard to ignore firstly it is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and fourth in the case of women. Also known as colorectal cancer, it is generally very common amongst those who follow a Western diet as opposed to Eastern styles.

However, first one must know what exactly the colon is! The colon essentially connects the gastrointestinal system to the rectum allowing wastes to excrete from the body. The intestine is the long tube that comprises the gastrointestinal system. Polyps attack the walls of the intestines without emitting symptoms throughout the body, therefore going undetected. A colonoscopy however can reveal their existence and therefore their removal. Most of these polyps are not dangerous, but several may carry cancerous cells.

Additionally, left undiagnosed and untreated, polyps lining the intestinal walls can turn cancerous. Tumours can also in turn metastasise, spreading to the body’s other organs. In cases where this occurs, survival chances are slim.

Genetics are thought to influence colon rectal cancer. Additionally, high fat diets leave people susceptible the disease over those who follow low fat diets.

Being aware of fat content in one’s diet illuminates unhealthy options found in some restaurants and grocery stores. It is recommended to opt for meals containing low fat, high fibre, wholegrain and fresh options.

For those who have a family history of colon cancer, regular checkups are a must. This is due to the presence of cancer multiplying over time if given the chance. Damaged colon cells and intestinal polyps are a recipe for colorectal cancer! Furthermore, the presence of ulcerative colitis for more than 10 years heightens the risk of colon cancer immensely.

Hereditary colon cancer most often spreads to those closest in relation to the family member. However, as the number of close relatives who experience the cancer increases, so does ones’ chances of developing the disease. Nevertheless, almost 80% of colon rectal cancer sufferers have no known family history of the disease.

Early detection through colonoscopies and other such exams is imperative in the fight against colon rectal cancer. This is due to that symptoms usually do not present for this disease until they are too advanced to be treated effectively. It is suggested that you get a colonoscopy a minimum of once every ten years after the age of forty in aid of detection and treatment in time.