One of the most prevalent cancers in today’s population is colon cancer. Colon cancer is a disease that is hard to identify early because there are no distinct symptoms in its early stages. Its primary causes are known to be westernized eating habits, genetic factors, and environmental factors. Therefore, early detection and prevention of colon cancer require focus and effort.
Eating habits are one of the primary causes of colon cancer. Carcinogens will probably build up, and dangerous bacteria will proliferate in the colon if you eat a diet high in processed foods and meat and low in dietary fiber. Obesity and inactivity are also significant risk factors. Being overweight increases insulin resistance and intestinal inflammation, both of which raise the risk of colon cancer development. Regular checkups are required if there is a family history of colon cancer because genetic factors are also an unavoidable factor.
It is simple to ignore the early signs of colon cancer because they are frequently mild or can be mistaken for those of other digestive disorders. Changes in bowel habits, frequent diarrhea and constipation, bloody stool, and discomfort in the abdomen are typical symptoms. There may also be fatigue, appetite loss, and weight loss. However, the cancer is frequently already advanced when symptoms start to show, so early detection through routine examinations is crucial.
Regular colonoscopies are recommended for adults over 50 to detect colon cancer early. People who belong to a high-risk group or have a family history should start testing earlier. Noninvasive procedures like fecal occult blood tests may also be helpful for an early diagnosis. It can also be avoided by eating better and exercising frequently. It is advised to limit the consumption of processed and red meat and to eat more fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber.
But regrettably, even if you continue to eat healthily and exercise frequently, colon cancer can still strike. This is because variations in an individual’s immune system and genetic and environmental factors may be the cause.
In particular, if there is a family history, the probability of cancer cells forming increases, and changes in the composition of intestinal bacteria can affect cancer development. In addition, carcinogens in the air, stress, and long-term use of antibiotics can negatively affect colon health. Therefore, the best preventive measures are improving lifestyle habits and managing health through regular checkups.
