HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · MAY 2018
SYMPTOMS OF COLON CANCER THAT
EVERY YOUNG WOMAN SHOULD KNOW
S
ince 1990, the number of people diagnosed with colon cancer has been
on the rise. Surprisingly, the number of women diagnosed with colon
cancer has increased at a steady rate. Women are more well-educated
about breast se lf-exams and how to recognize potential problems in their
reproductive organs. They’re more knowledgeable about skin care and when
to become concerned about moles and spots on their skin, but now medical
professionals are warning them to be vigilant about their colon health.
A study in the Journal of the
National Cancer Institute has found
that people born after 1990 are
presenting with symptoms of colon
and rectal cancers. This has led them
to surmise that the people in that
age bracket have double the risk of
colon cancer and quadruple the risk
of rectal cancer compared to those
born between 1950 and 1990. This
uptick began in the mid-1980s, while
at the same time, rates for those
over the age of 55 dropped.
Researchers haven’t yet determined
why the numbers have changed
so drastically. Their not-yet-
substantiated belief is that it may
be related to stress, diet, and/
or behaviors. Of course, further
research still needs to be done, but
these are some of the factors they
will be looking at to determine the
cause of the uptick.
Despite the growing numbers, there
is good news. Unlike many types
of cancer, colon cancer is one of
the leading preventable forms of
cancer. Like with any other disease,
if you have a family history of colon
or rectal cancer, you should inform
your doctor and schedule an exam if
deemed medically important by your
physician. A colonoscopy or other
imaging may be ordered.
Anyone, regardless of family
history, should be familiar with
signs and symptoms of colon
cancer. One of the first signs is
large amounts of dark, black-tinged
or maroon blood in feces. While
not a definitive indication, it could
indicate something that a medical
professional will have to assess.
Prolonged constipation may suggest
that there’s a blockage in your colon.
It could mean that you have a tumor
at the end of your colon.
Lower stomach spasms are another
sign that something serious may
be going on. If it’s an unfamiliar
pain, different from anything
you ever experienced, like gas or
bloating, contact your doctor for an
appointment.
If you notice a change in the
consistency or the shape of
your stool, that is something
you will want to alert your
doctor about. Thin, narrow,
ribbon-like shaped stool
could indicate there’s a
blockage in your colon.
Anything that seems off or unusual
should be disclosed to your doctor.
Even if you think they’re nothing
to be alarmed about, it is better to
consult with your doctor and do
the tests necessary to help combat
this unfortunate disease. Let a
medical professional determine
your level of alarm. If caught early,
the prognosis is good. Do your due
diligence. Pay attention to your body.
Communicate openly and honestly
with a healthcare professional.
24 HEALTHY MAGAZINE
By Leonor Kalil