Colon Cancer Stages - Colon Cancer Survival Rate
Go to: Previous Article Next Article
Colon cancer is a disease that progresses slowly and is highly unnoticeable. However, early diagnosis and medication for this type of cancer is very important. Having knowledge of the symptoms of colon cancer can be a good way to avoid the fatality of the disease through earlier treatment. It is not easy to discover if one has colon cancer. This is why doctors advice people over 50 years old to undergo colonoscopy. Even if the results show negative signs for cancer, recurrent examinations every after ten years is also recommended. But if the findings yield a possibility for cancer - even if the chance is small - the patient should submit to colonoscopy every two years.
Are you at Risk? The statistics and estimates are initially frightening. In 2011, it is estimated that 141,000 people will be diagnosed with colon-colorectal cancer and approximately 50,000 people will die from the disease. However, according to an America Cancer Society report more than half of these deaths could be prevented by screening. In addition, studies suggest that a healthy diet is vital in reducing colon cancer risk.
One of the common misconceptions is that only individuals with a family history of colon-colorectal cancer need to be concerned. In fact, statistics show that only 1 in 5 people who are diagnosed with colon-colorectal cancer have a family history; Which means that most people diagnosed with this cancer have no genetic connection to the disease.
Another possible sign of colon cancer is anemia. The type of anemia closely related to cancer is hemorrhage or excessive bleeding. Hemorrhage can be a side effect of past or current medication but if you suddenly acquired the sickness, you may be advised to undergo series of check ups to ensure that you don't have any other ailments.
You may also find your weight abruptly decreasing even if you are not making any effort in dieting. Furthermore, you will start losing appetite and will feel nauseated usually after a meal. These symptoms are similar to other less harmful diseases but if they continue after 24 hours or after medication, you should now seek more extensive diagnosis.
Diagnoses for colon cancer often include a stool test - both stool blood test and stool DNA test; Sigmoidoscopy - examination of the lower colon only; and Colonoscopy - examination of the entire colon. Colonoscopy is the most recommended diagnosis and the most accurate amongst the three. This method uses a thin tube with a camera on one end.
The tube is inserted through the rectum and the camera captures the internal appearance of the colon to check for possible tumor growth and any other irregularities. These diagnostic procedures have increased the survival rights of cancer-inflicted people but may no longer be able to help once the cancer has already advanced to higher stage. Abrupt diagnosis after all coincides with abrupt treatment. So if you are experiencing any of these early symptoms of colon cancer, then it is best to contact a doctor now.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
- Get Fit the healthy way tons of honest tips and tricks to lead a healthier life, also in progress a guide on how to stop smoking -
Word Count: 505
Reduce Your Debts Without Bankruptcy. See How Much You Can Save. Free Debt Analysis