It is critical that we become Sun City-informed citizenry about the cancer that affects the colon and rectum because early detection through regular screenings can beat this cancer. Indeed it is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. (only behind lung cancer). Globally, cancer of the colon and rectum is the third-leading cause of cancer in males and the fourth leading cause of cancer in females. The frequency of colorectal cancer varies around the world. It is common in the Western World and is rare in Asia and Africa. In countries where people have adopted western diets, the incidence of this cancer is increasing.
Cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases. They affect the body’s basic unit, the cell. Cancer occurs when cells become abnormal and divide without order or control. Normally, cells divide to produce more cells only when the body needs them. If cells keep dividing when new cells are not needed, a mass of tissue forms. This mass of extra tissue, called a growth or tumor, can be benign or malignant.
When cancer spreads to another part of the body, the new tumor has the same kind of abnormal cells and the same name as the primary tumor. For example, if colon cancer has spread from the colon area to the liver, the cancer cells there are referred to also as colon cancer cells. Colon cancer is a metastatic disease (spread to other organs/tissues) .
What exactly is cancer of the colon and the rectum (colorectal, or colon cancer)? The colon is the part of the digestive system where the waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. Together they form a long, muscular tube called the large intestine, or large bowel.
Tumors in this area of the body are growths arising from the inner wall of the large intestine. Benign tumors of the large intestine are known as polyps. Malignant tumors here are known as cancers. The benign polyps do not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body. They can easily be removed during the colonoscopy procedure (the test that enables the doctor to see up into the large intestine walls).
If these polyps are not removed from the large bowel, however, they can become malignant over time. Most cancers found in this area are believed to have developed from polyps. Once metastasis has occurred in colorectal cancer, a complete cure of the cancer is unlikely.
Physicians recommend colonoscopies among adults to begin at the age of 50. A healthy colonoscopy result may lead to a 5 to 10-year interval between screenings. It is never too late to begin by having your first colonoscopy. If you haven’t begun testing for colon/rectal abnormalities, make a pledge to yourself to have that first screening at once. Your life may depend on it. Also please be aware of the following signs and symptoms of colon cancer:
1. A change in your bowel habits or a change in the consistency of your stool
2. Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
3. Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain
4. A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
5. Weakness or fatigue
6. Unexplained weight loss
Many people with colon cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms appear, they’ll vary, depending on the cancer’s size and location in the large intestine.
Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?
1. Men and women over the age of 50
2. Adults who use tobacco, are obese, or are sedentary
3. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer, polyps, or other types of bowel disease
4. Persons with a high fat intake, where fat metabolism leads to formation of carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals)
How can Sun Citians reduce their chances of becoming victims of colorectal cancer?
1. Don’t smoke
2. Don’t drink alcohol excessively
3. Be physically active and exercise regularly
4. Maintain a healthy weight
5. Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains.
6. Consume calcium-rich foods such as low-fat or skim milk and yogurt.
7. Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats.
8. If you haven’t had one yet, schedule yourself for a colonoscopy test or a follow-up test based on your physician’s recommendation.
