Colon Cancer Lacks Early Warning Signs

Colon cancer is so deadly because it is often diagnosed when it is too late. This type of cancer usually lacks the early warning signs of other cancers, like changes in your blood markers, lumps in your breast tissue, and so on.

Colon cancer is so hidden because the tumor grows in a “tunnel,” as Dr. Ibrahim Adamu puts it. However, there are some subtle signs that you may have the disease, like different bowel habits, bloating, or bleeding.

Dr. Adamu said that most of his patients complain about being bloated and not being able to really empty their bowl after going to the bathroom. Such changes may be a telltale sign of cancer especially after the age 50.

Also, the risk of being diagnosed with this type of cancer grows as we age. The people with the highest risk are blacks, people with a family history of the condition, and those living with an inflammatory bowel disease.

Also, people with a low appetite, who are shedding pounds, and feel weak could have the condition. In these people, hemoglobin levels are low, which is another warning sign.

Most People Scared of Colonoscopy

Dr. Adamu recommends colonoscopy as a surefire detection method when it comes to colon cancer. Most experts recommend screening after hitting age 50, but people with a family history of the condition should start earlier. Dr. Adamu believes most people learn they have the condition when it is too late because they fear the colonoscopy.

I think most people are worried about what’s going to be found,

Dr. Adamu said.

However, in most cases, colonoscopies are negative. Most people who undergo a colonoscopy learn that they do not have cancer.

A colon cancer that is detected in its early stages ups the chances of survival. Ninety percent of people who had an early diagnosis are still alive half a decade later.
Image Source: Pixabay

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Anne-Marie Jackson

Anna grew up on a steady diet of 20th century literature, science-fiction movies and Viking lore. Unsurprisingly she turned into a technology geek with an inclination for history & fantasy.