Early detection is key for colon cancer

Unlike other cancers that manifest themselves in symptoms, colon cancer's aren't always obvious, but you can learn what these warning signs may look and feel like. But like warning signs may look and feel like. But like other cancers, colon cancers may be brought on by any combination of factors, some of which are not entirely hereditary. Colon cancer, like other cancers, is treatable if detected early.

For a better understanding of colon-cancer symptoms, it helps to learn something about the colon. As an important part of the digestive system, the colon has a major role in helping the body absorb nutrients, minerals and water. It also helps rid the body waste in the form of stool. The colon comprises the bulk of the large intestine, approximately six feet in length. The last six inches or so of the large intestine are the rectum and the anal canal.

Colon cancer symptoms come in two general varieties - the local and the systemic. The first may affect your toilet habits and the colon itself. Some of the more common local symptoms of colon cancer include changes in your bowel habits. such as bowel movements that are wither more or less frequent than normal; alternating bouts with constipation and diarrhea; bright red or dark red blood in your stools, if not black or "tarry" stools; thinner-than-normal stools (also called "pencil stools") accompanied by the feeling of being unable to empty your bowel completely; and abdominal discomfort, including bloating, frequent gas pains or cramps.

The second variety of symptoms comprise those that affect your whole body, such as weight loss and may include loss of appetite, unexplained fatigue, nausea or vomiting, anemia and jaundice.

If you experience any of these for any length of time, even just a few days, a visit to the doctor is in order so that you can arrange for tests to get to the bottom of your symptoms. Understanding colon-cancer symptoms is important, because you can use this knowledge to work with your doctor to find out the cause and take care of your long-term health.

Precisely because colon cancer does not manifest itself in early symptoms, regular screening beginning at age 50 is a vital investment for a healthy future Dr. Kenneth Calderon, Healthway gastroenterologist, cites the following risk factors specific to colon (or colorectal) cancer: age, alcohol, smoking, diabetes and obesity, diet, environment, lifestyle, genetics, family and personal medical history, and inflammatory bowel disease.

"Age is No. 1 risk factor for colon cancer," says Calderon, who adds that although age does not necessarily cause colon cancer, "by are 50, one in four people has polyps - adenomatous polyps in the colon, generally referred to simply as colon polyps." Thus a personal or family history of polyps puts one at higher risk for colon cancer.

Highly qualified Healthway doctors run outpatient tests and procedures for colon cancer. Carmie de Leon, Healthway vice president for sales and marketing, emphasizes the company's continuing advocacy for early detection and prevention. "These services are part of Healthway's commitment to a healthy lifestyle that puts a premium on prevention," she says.