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COLON CANCER
STATISTICS
- Approximately 95,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer
per year.
- Approximately 48,000 people will die of colon cancer
- Men are more likely than women to develop colon cancer.
- Second most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States.
RISK FACTORS
Unlike many other cancers, colon cancer does not have a very high
genetic relation, although a history of having polyps, or a sibling
or parent with polyps, may put you at risk. A great number of people
who develop colon cancer have a diet that is high in fat and animal
protein and low in fiber. Smokers, heavy drinkers, the sedentary
and obese people are more likely to develop colon cancer.
Men with iron-deficiency anemia are more likely to develop colon
cancer. Women who have a history of breast, endometrial, or ovarian
cancer have a higher risk of colon cancer. Women with anemia after
menopause also pose a greater risk.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms are usually very non-specific until the cancer is advanced.
The following are some possible symptoms to watch out for, especially
if you are over age 40:
- Change in bowel habits that last for more than a few days (constipation,
diarrhea, narrowing of the stool).
- Feeling that you need to have a bowel movement when you have
already expelled.
- Cramping/stomach pain
- Blood in stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Weakness and fatigue
- Decrease in appetite
- Jaundice
Colon cancer is often misdiagnosed as a bowel obstruction or bowel
perforation.
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