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Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

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If you’re over the age of 50, doctors recommend beginning screening for colon cancer, especially if you have a family history of the disease.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestines.  Symptoms include a change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation), blood in your stool, persistent cramps or gas pains, a feeling that your bowels haven’t been completely empty, weakness or fatigue or unexplained weight loss.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately. Many people don’t notice, or experience, early stages of colon cancer.  Once symptoms appear, the cancer is likely more developed– this is why screening is important.

Risk factors of colon cancer are:

Advanced age- 50 and older

African-American race- African-Americans more often develop colon cancer than other ethnicities.

Family history- If you have a family history of colon cancer, you’re at a higher risk of developing the disease.

Intestinal and Bowl Conditions- If you have a history of intestinal or bowel issues, you’re at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

High-fat, low-fiber diet- If you eat a lot of fatty foods and don’t get enough fiber in your diet, you’re at a higher risk for developing the disease.

Other risk factors include:

Diabetes

Obesity

Smoking

Alcohol

Sources:

Mayo Clinic

Cancer.org

 

 

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