Colon cancer becoming more apparent at younger age
Doctors are noticing a shift in the age of adults being diagnosed with colon cancer. The American Cancer Society said diagnosis of those under 55 are up two percent.
Some epidemiologists believe that diet, too much red meat, and obesity could be the factors. Family history can also play a role, according to one OSF Healthcare physician who says colonoscopy testing should now start at age 45 — in addition to other preventative efforts, WTVO reported.
“Prevention of colon cancer is very possible. There is a large amount of literature to support this. A decrease in red meat consumption decreases the risk of colon cancer. An increase in exercise again decreases the risk of colon cancer. More green leafy vegetables in your diet decreases the risk of colon cancer,” explained Dr. Shylendra Sreenivasappa.
Colon cancer symptoms include left side abdominal pain, constipation, and fatigue. Doctors said these signs should not be ignored.
Colon cancer usually begins as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time some of these polyps can become colon cancers.
Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to help prevent colon cancer by identifying and removing polyps before they turn into cancer.
If colon cancer develops, many treatments are available to help control it, including surgery, radiation therapy and drug treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Colon cancer is sometimes called colorectal cancer, which is a term that combines colon cancer and rectal cancer, which begins in the rectum.