Colon and rectal cancer are the world’s second leading cause of cancer-related fatality. In the United States, it is the third leading cause of cancer-related fatalities, having slipped from the second spot over the last decade as more people learned about the benefits of regular, preventive colorectal cancer screenings. If you are 50 or older, you probably already know that colon and rectal cancer screening is crucial, but what about if you are not yet 50? While about 90% of colorectal cancers are diagnosed in adults 50 years or older, statistics are seeing an alarming increase in the individuals aged between 20-49 years. What can you do to ensure that you do not fall victim to this alarming trend? Understanding the risk factors of Astoria colon and rectal cancer is vital so that you can make the necessary healthy adjustments or start screenings early. Continue reading to learn more.
What Are the Common Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors?
Colorectal cancer could be caused by various risk factors, some manageable, whereas others are not.
Manageable Risk Factors
Making necessary adjustments to the following may reduce your susceptibility to colorectal cancer:
- Obesity – Exercising and eating healthy will help you maintain a healthy weight
- Poor Dieting- Limit red meat consumption and increase fiber-rich fruits, grains, and vegetables in your diet
- Sedentary Living- Reduced physical exercise and activity heightens your danger of colorectal cancer. Try exercising every day, even if it is just a 30-minute stroll.
- Tobacco use- Ceasing smoking lowers your chance of colorectal cancer, as well as various other diseases and illnesses.Information about: thenewsify , Learn why : amazinginfo , And Read More: 1i1
Unmanageable Risk Factors
With these factors, you are more predisposed to colorectal cancer, despite your best efforts in remaining healthy:
- Age – Although colorectal cancer could develop in anybody, it is more common in the older population
- Gender – Men are more likely than women to develop colorectal cancer. Specifically, females are more vulnerable to colon cancer, whereas males report more cases of rectal cancer.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – The longer you suffer this condition, the more likely you are exposed to colon cancerRead more about topnewsplus
- History of colorectal cancer – Even though the tumor was eliminated, if you have previously been identified with colorectal cancer, you are more likely to develop new tumors in other sections of the rectum or colon.
- History of colorectal polyps
- Specific gene mutation – Including familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome
What Are the Signs of Colorectal Cancer?
Colon and rectal cancer share numerous similarities. Thus, you may notice similar symptoms for either of these problems. These include:
- Cramping, bloating, or discomfort in the abdominal area
- Diarrhea
- Stool consistency changes (watery or loose stool)
- Blood in the stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Constipation
- Having trouble emptying your bowels entirely
Early detection can save lives, and getting regular screenings and checkups is one of the greatest strategies to avoid colorectal cancer. At Pleasant Valley Hospital, we strive to educate and enlighten our community about cancer prevention and treatment choices.
Colon and rectal cancer are highly preventable, and when identified early enough, it could easily be cured. By acknowledging the risk factors and learning to stop the warning symptoms, you may prevent this cancer. Nonetheless, if you have already developed colorectal cancer, you can access a range of surgery options at Surgical Specialists of NY to address your condition. Call one of their New York office locations or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation with a certified general surgeon.
