Cancer is one of the world's most dangerous and life-threatening diseases. There are various types of cancers in the world, such as lung cancer and breast cancer, with colon cancer being one among them.

However, the sad part is that most of the world's population must know its causes, symptoms, and treatment-related information. The same is why we have assembled this guide to talk about all the most related information, such as When — and how — you should be screened for colon cancer. So, without any further delays, let us get into the content.

Exploring When — and how — should you be screened for colon cancer?

We will be shedding light upon all the crucial factors you must know about the disease one by one to rest assured all the information is wholly transmitted and fully processed by your mind. That being said, please have a look below.

What is colon cancer?

Also known as Colorectal cancer or bowel cancer, colon cancer is one of the types of cancer that affects the colon or rectum of your body. For those who don't know what the colon is, it is the most significant part of your intestine that helps the body and digestive system to work smoothly. Colon cancer was a rare disease during the 18th and 19th centuries. However, today, it has evolved as one common form that affects about 1. 23 million people worldwide. In addition, studies show that colon cancer has killed about 608000 people all across the globe because of improper care and unawareness.

Furthermore, colon cancer might also affect the appendix and may cause the patient to suffer from severe pain and rectal tumors. The same is why the World Health Organization is arranging awareness programs for people to know about it before it's too late. According to doctors, colon cancer usually affects people above the age of 45 as the immune system starts to deteriorate after that age.

However, some other factors can be determined to arrange for a colon cancer screening.

When you should be screened for colon cancer

Research and studies predict that colon cancer primarily affects people above the age of 45 as the immune system by that age has started to lose its strength. The same is why, according to the US Preventive Services Task Force (commonly known as the Task Force), you should go for the checkup once you have crossed that age or have turned 45.

Nevertheless, it does not mean that you need to pass the test only once in your lifetime. Instead, one must repeat the test every three years to ensure a safe list style. In addition, there are some symptoms of colon cancer as well. And if you develop any of these, consider going for a test, regardless of age.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Following are some of the joint and most significant symptoms of colon cancer

1. You are witnessing blood particles in your stool and experiencing severe pain while passing it out.
2. People who are constantly suffering from various stomach conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, or feeling continuous pain in that area.
3. Experiencing cramps that won't go away no matter what medicines you take
4. Witnessing a slight bump in your lower belly without a cause
5. Sudden weight loss even if you are taking a proper and healthy diet.

Different screening tests for colon cancer

There are two significant types of screening tests, among which your doctor would advise. These are known as the standard colonoscopy, which involves the usage of multiple tools during the process of diagnosis.

1. Colonoscopy: For conducting the colonoscopy, your surgeon will insert a long, thin, yet flexible tube into your rectum with a camera attached. The insertion is done beyond the rectum to acquire a clear picture. Through the camera, the entire length of your rectum is examined to see if cancer or a tumor has developed in an area. The colonoscopy might be used for detecting precancerous polyps, AKA adenomas.

If your doctor has instructed you to undergo the following diagnosis, drink plenty of clean water to rest assured all the waste is removed from your stomach. This way, it will be easier for the surgeon to spot the culprit area without disruptions.

1. Stool test: This test is conducted in patients who have developed symptoms of severe colon cancer. In such cases, the colon polyps shed tiny blood particles in the patient's stool. Patients must submit their samples from home to the clinic for the examination. Reports may be delivered within a day or two.

Things you should do to avoid colon cancer

Here are some of the significant things you must take care of to avoid the symptoms of colon cancer from developing

1. Getting the diet right: Remember, diet is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Doctors say that 70 percent of your body depends on the diet to function precisely. Furthermore, food is the primary thing that strengthens your immune system to fight chronic diseases like colon cancer. Thus, take a diet that is rich in protein and healthy fats. Try to minimize your carbs as these might cause several diseases, leading you towards colon cancer. Also, include fruit and lactose in your daily meals.
2. Exercise: exercise helps your body by enhancing the overall blood flow. In addition, practice also results in the burning of carbohydrates, allowing you to live a more balanced and healthy lifestyle.
3. Drink plenty of water: Water neutralizes your body's chemicals, flushes out all the toxins and free radicals, and helps to obtain a clean body. Doctors recommended intake of at least 2 liters or eight glasses of water a day. You may include fruit juice in the meals.

Conclusion

On the bottom line, colon cancer is the second most dangerous and life-threatening form of cancer after lung cancer that affects millions of people worldwide. The main reason people do so remains unawareness and lack of information. The same is why we have developed this ultimate guide about When — and how — should you be screened for colon cancer? So make sure to read from start to end.