Colon Cancer – Risk Factors

Colon cancer is a serious condition that affects the colon, the rectum and the appendix. There are numerous causes that can determine this condition, but they differ from case to case. The main risk factors for the colon cancer can be:

• Age – elder people tend to develop this type of cancer much easier that young adults. Most patients that develop colon cancer are around 60-70 years old;
• Poor alimentation, lack of vitamins and increased consumption of meat and fats;
• Family antecedent of colon cancer – this is the most important risk factor, especially if the person has a first grade relative who suffered of colon cancer. This is why these persons are usually observed, in order to indicate the early appearance of the colon cancer, in case this occurs;
• A sedentary lifestyle; This lifestyle leads to obesity and this condition is a risk factor for colon cancer;
• The exaggerate consumption of alcohol and smoking;
• Exposure to certain viruses can also lead to colon cancer;
• The presences of small tumors like polyps on the rectum and colon wall. In fact, doctors sustain the fact that most colon cancers develop in such polyps. This is why they advice the patients to remove these polyps before the cancer appears.
• The presence of an inflammatory disorder in the digestive tube.

Besides these factors, there are others which seem to have a connection with the colon cancer. Among these, there is the ulcerative colitis. This condition causes an inflammation in the colon, which can lead to serious repercussions, such as this type of cancer. Still, in some cases, the colon cancer patients present none of the above risk factors. Recent studies are focused on establishing the connection between alimentation and fighting against this type of cancer. The studies show the fact that a diet full of fruits, vegetables and cereals (especially integral ones, wheat) can prevent the occurrence of colon cancer. Furthermore, the studies show the fact that in countries where people consume more fat that in other places, the colon cancer is spread affection.

Colon Cancer - Symptoms

The main symptoms of the colon cancer are numerous. Still, their presence does not necessarily indicate a serious condition, such as cancer. In many cases, they can indicate simple digestive disorders, as the patients seem to be asymptomatic. In order to be sure of the diagnosis, a professional consultation is required. Usually, the main symptoms of this type of cancer are:

• The presence of blood in the stool. Usually, this blood is colored in light red and it appears because the possible tumor is bleeding;
• Unusual stools (diarrhea and constipation or a mix of the two);
• Frequent cramps that last more days, which can not be explained;
• Unexpected weight loss;
• Thinner and smaller stools that usually;
• The need to defecate, without actually eliminating;
• Abdominal pains, crams and diffuse disorders;
• The sensation of incomplete defecation;
• Anemia, as a result of the bleeding.

Suffering of colon cancer is a serious matter. This is why people should take all the necessary precautions in order to avoid the occurrence of this cancer. The most important thing when trying to prevent this type of cancer is to have good eating habits and a healthy diet. In fact, a healthy diet (this should also avoid alcohol and smoking) protects your organism against various disorders and against all types of cancer. Furthermore, a balanced diet should be associated with an active lifestyle, which is another key element for the general human health.