Introduction
The colon refers to the longest section of the large gut and the most low-down section of the digestive arrangement in the human body. Within this part, water and salt are drawn out from solid desecrate ahead of it proceeding through the terminal section of the alimentary canal and leaving the body by way of the anus.
Cancer is a group of disorders typified by uncontrollable cell development, and colon cancer comes about when this uninhibited cell development kicks off with cells in the large intestine. For the most part, colon cancer disorder(s) begin to form small, nonmalignant growths referred to as adenomatous polyps that appear on the interior walls of the large tract (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, March 2007, p. 361). A number of these cysts may develop into dangerous colon cancers with time if they are not gotten rid of during a procedure of endoscopy. Colon cancer cells will attack and harm hale and hearty tissue that is adjacent to the growth resulting in quite a several difficulties.
Following the formation of cancerous growths, the malignant cells may move by way of blood and lymph systems, extending to other sections of the body. These cancerous cells can develop in quite a several places, attacking and devastating other fit tissues in the body. This process is referred to as metastasis, and the outcome is a more severe situation that is very hard to take care of. Statistics show that in the United States close to 112,000 persons are identified to be having this disorder every year.
The warning signs of this disorder are pretty diverse and are contingent upon where the cancer is situated, where it has extended, and the size of the growth. It is widespread for those with the infection to have no signs in the initial periods of the disorder. Nonetheless, when the disorder develops, some signs manifest themselves. They mostly commence with diarrhea or constipation. These are followed by other symptoms which include, alterations in feces regularity, blood in feces, aches in the process of bowel movement(s), frequent urges to poop, inexplicable loss of weight, among others.
In cases where the disorder has extended to other parts of the body, further signs can occur in the affected sections. Such warning signs will rely on the area to which the disorder has spread, with the liver being the most frequent.
Causes of colon cancer
There are quite a several causes of this disorder and among them there features nutrition, obesity, and fitness of an individual. The types of foods that one majorly consumes determine whether they are at risk or not of developing this disorder (Su LJ, Arab L, 2004, p. 111). Research has established that diets containing high levels of fat and cholesterol, particularly from animals, put consumers at high risk of developing the disorder.
Obesity refers to a state in which a person surpasses their advocated weight. It is a step clear of being overweight, and it is a well-known cause of colon cancer. Studies have revealed that inactive lifestyles as well lead to the development of colon cancer.
Reducing the risk of colon cancer
The best place to begin is ensuring that one consumes the right foods. Foods rich in fiber are advocated, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables, and white meat. Red meat should be kept to a minimum (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, March 2007, p. 364).
Alongside a healthy diet, people need to ensure that they exercise their bodies appropriately. All body systems work effectively through this and it also keeps complications like obesity at bay. Alcohol intake and smoking need to be kept to a minimum or even avoided as well.
Reference List
Su LJ, Arab L (2004). Alcohol consumption and risk of colon cancer: evidence from the national health and nutrition examination survey I epidemiologic follow-up study. Nutr Cancer 50 (2): 111–9.
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2007). Routine aspirin or nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs for the primary prevention of colorectal cancer: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Ann. Intern. Med. 146 (5): 361–4.