Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. But what are the top causes of colon cancer? And what can you do to protect yourself from this deadly disease? This article will discuss the leading five causes of colon cancer, as well as some tips on preventing it.
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer starts in the colon (a long, coiled tube that runs from the small intestine to the rectum); or the rectum (the last part of the large intestine and sits just above the anus). According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States, after breast and prostate cancer. It affects both men and women and can occur at any age. But there are things you can do to protect yourself from this deadly disease.
What are the top five causes of it?
Many factors can increase your risk of colon cancer, including age, race, and family history. But the top five causes of colon cancer are:
1. Diet - A poor diet is one of the leading causes of colon cancer. A diet high in processed foods and red meat. According to a current study, red meat contains naturally occurring chemicals that cause it to be carcinogenic. When a chemical called haem is broken down in the intestines, N-nitroso compounds are produced and have been found to damage cells in the bowel, which can lead to bowel cancer.
2. Obesity - is also a significant risk factor for colon cancer because Obese people have altered hormone function, which can influence how their bodies use fuel and respond to food. Insulin is a hormone that controls blood sugar levels in the body. Obese individuals have higher amounts of insulin than those with an average weight, causing cell functions to vary as the hormones induce irregular cell growth in the colon.
3. Lack of Exercise - Exercise increases antioxidant levels and DNA repair. It can also influence growth factor generation and insulin metabolism, improving inflammation and immune function. According to the National Cancer Institute, most physically active people may reduce their risk of colon cancer by as much as 24% by engaging in regular exercise.
4. Smoking - increases your risk of developing the disease because Inhaling pollutants and poisons into your body creates free radicals, which can damage DNA and transform good cells. Free radicals may cause the development of precancerous polyps in the large intestine, leading to cancer if they aren't stopped.
5. Alcoholism - When your body metabolizes alcohol, it generates acetaldehyde, a carcinogen. Acetaldehyde may harm DNA in colon cells and induce mutations that raise the incidence of polyps.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
Colon cancer symptoms can include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), abdominal pain, and weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away. Early detection is key to surviving colon cancer.
How can you protect yourself from this deadly disease?
There are many things you can do to protect yourself from colon cancer, including:
1. Eating a healthy diet - A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of developing the disease.
2. Exercising regularly - Exercise can help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
3. Quitting smoking - Smoking increases your risk of developing the disease and can make it harder to treat if you do develop it.
4. Limiting alcohol consumption - excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of colon cancer.
5. Getting regular screenings (Colonoscopy) - The American Cancer Society recommends that all adults age 45 and older have a yearly screening. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) advises that people ages 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. According to the Task Force, adults aged 76 to 85 should discuss the issue with their doctor.
How is colon cancer treated?
Colon cancer is a severe disease, but many treatment options are available. The most common treatment is surgery to remove the cancerous tumor. Other treatments include radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
The prognosis for patients with colon cancer depends on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. Early detection is key to surviving colon cancer. With early diagnosis and treatment, the five-year survival rate for patients is 90%. But if the disease is diagnosed later, the five-year survival rate drops to 50%.
GI Associates & Endoscopy Can Help
GI Associates can help with screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Take control of your GI health. Contact us if you'd like to see a physician or have more questions. We treat all gastrointestinal issues and disorders with quality, comprehensive care.
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