Our colon is an amazing part of the human body. It has an array of duties from absorbing water and nutrients from our foods so they be transported to our cells, to acting as the major toxin and elimination collector from the food and substances we ingest. The colon is part of the intestines, and if you spread it out, it would reach 6 feet. The waste gathered in the colon is transported to the rectum where we can eliminate it.
Colon Cancer can occur in this hard working organ and colon cancer affects about 7% of Americans. The good news is that this type of cancer can be cured if found early enough. Scientists have not been able to determine exactly how people get colon cancer, but they have identified some risk factors.
Age: While anyone can get colon cancer, it is more common in individuals over age 50.
Bowel Disease: If you have a history of bowel diseases such as Crohns, ulcerative colitis, polyps, you are at a higher risk of obtaining colon cancer.
Diet: a high fat diet and lack of exercise can affect your risk.
Ethnic Background: Jews from Eastern European descent have a high rate of colon cancer. African Americans and Hispanics have a higher death rate, which could be in part because of poor access to health care and colon cancer screening. Also family history plays a part. If you have a family member who has had colon cancer or polyps, you are in a higher risk category.
Smoking and Alcohol: Yep….neither are good for you and can add to your risk.
What are the Warning Signs of Colon Cancer?
- Change in bowel habits
- Feeling bloated, constipated or feeling like your bowel is not completely empty
- Narrow stools
- Excessive gas, bloating, fullness or cramps
- Weight loss for no apparent reason
- Feeling tired all the time
- Vomiting
Make sure you get regular health care examinations by your physician, and see them immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms.