Medical Science all these years has developed a lot. We now have a cure for almost all lethal diseases that once were thought to be incurable. But there remains one disease of which scientists need a proper cure. Yes, I am talking about cancer. But the good news is many cancers when detected early can be cured properly. Today we are going to talk about Colon Cancer that is the common type of cancer among the youth.
What is colon cancer?
Formation of tumours in colon or rectum. Colon cancer forms when the DNA in cells of colon develop mutations. This results in uncontrollable growth of cells which spread to all other parts.
Men have more chances to get colon cancer!!
Men have a slightly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than women. Men tend to develop colon cancer at an earlier age than women, a study reported in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association). Recent studies also state that young men (men who are in their 20s and 30s) who appear to be healthy have reported this cancer. Earlier the tyargets of this cancer were people above 50. But now even young have reported this cancer. In India, there are more than 1 million cases per year.
Symptoms
Although the cause of colon cancer is unknown, few symptoms include:
- Stools aren’t consistent, you either suffer from constipation or diarrhoea
2. Blood in stool
3. Continuous complaints of cramps, pain or gas
4. Uncontrollable weight loss
5. Feeling tired all the time
Many people do not experience any symptoms in the early stages.
Treatment
Treatment depends on many factors like size, location, and stage of cancer, whether it is recurrent or not. This cancer can be treated by chemotherapy,radiotherapy, and surgery.
Surgery
The affected tumours and any nearby lymph nodes are removed. To reduce any further spreading of cancer the rectum is removed and a colostomy bag is attached that collects stools.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves medications. Patients are given medicines that destroy the cancerous cells. It is usually done before surgery, to help shrink the tumour.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high energy radiation that destroys the cancer cells and to prevent them from multiplying.
Prevention
Many ways will help you to reduce the risk of cancer. Some of them are as follows –
1. Regular screenings – Especially when you have a family history of cancer. Regular screenings may help you detect cancer at early stages.
2. Eating healthy – Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These contain antioxidants and also act as intoxicants.
3. Reduce the consumption of alcohol – Limit the consumption of alcohol, as much as you can.
4. Stop smoking – Smoking has so many disadvantages. Quit smoking for a better body.
5. Exercise – Exercises prevent many diseases and helps to maintain a great body
6. Maintain a healthy weight – Your BMI shouldn’t be more than 25. Studies say when you are overweight you are more prone to colon cancer.
This was all about colon cancer, symptoms, treatment and prevention. Hope this article helped you. Exercise daily and stay healthy. And if you wanna know Why You Should Stop Taking Fitness Advice From Instagram Models click here