The colon is an integral part of our digestive systems. It is also known as the large intestine. The colon’s main operation is removing water from food our body has not digested. Then, it stores this food so it can be removed from the body at a later time through bowel movements. Unfortunately, colon cancer is a common occurrence and people must be aware of this so they can protect themselves.
What exactly is colon cancer? It is when a tumor, that is malignant, starts in the large intestine and grows. Unlike malignant tumors, there are benign tumors. These benign tumors are known as polyps. Benign polyps do not spread throughout the body or cause health complications within the skin tissue in the rectal region. However, they should be removed upon detection by a trained professional. Removal is essential because these benign polyps may turn into a cancerous tumor/s over time. These polyps can be detected through a routine colonoscopy. Many medical professionals believe that many tumors in the colon are the result of not detecting or removing benign polyps.
The reason why colon cancer is such a dangerous form of cancer is because of its location. Once a malignant tumor is present, it can spread from vital organ to vital organ. For example, the cancer may start in an individual’s colon but spread to his or her liver and then his or her lungs. This can drastically decrease the individual’s chances of survival. It can also decrease this person’s length and quality of life in a hurry.
Thankfully, colon cancer can be prevented and if it is detected at an early age, it can be cured. Colon cancer is more prevalent in men and it can be detected through a colonoscopy. This is also known as a colon cancer screening.
A colonoscopy is when a doctor uses a camera to determine whether or not polyps exist in the individual’s colon. While the standard is to use a fiber optic camera, or a similar alternative, there have been recent developments in non-invasive colon cancer screening methods. The most popular method is known as a virtual colonoscopy. It uses two, three-dimensional images gathered from computer tomography scans, and nuclear magnetic resonance scans.
A traditional colonoscopy lasts about 30 minutes. While it is best to ask your doctor when you should have one done, the rule of thumb is at least once every 10 years if you are over 50 years old.
A cancer screening is conducted by a gastroenterologist. This kind of doctor specializes in the digestive track. He or she knows what to look for.
After the screening, most people feel OK. However, you will more than likely still feel the effects of the anesthesia you were given prior to the procedure.
A colon cancer screening is an essential part of staying healthy as one gets older. Early detection and action is the key to surviving colon cancer. This is even more important if colon cancer runs in your family.
