Early cancer detection is the key

If you think you are too young to be afflicted by cancer of the colon and rectum, here's some expert advice - Colon cancer can strike anyone. A check-up to detect colorectal cancer can diagnose early symptom-less cancers - or even pre-cancers when they are in highly curable stages. Here's a list of risk factors Environment : The incidence of the disease is much greater in industrialized countries. Family History : The risk of developing colorectal cancer is greater if there is a history of cancer incidence in close relatives (parents, children or siblings) Age : Beginning at age 50. Preventive measures Early-detection test : Don't delay getting the screening test. Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT): Women who take ERT to alleviate symptoms of menopause may have a significantly lower risk of fatal colon cancer. Take your physician's advice before getting it done. Aspirin : People taking an aspirin every other day for 20 years may cut the risk of colon cancer almost in half, according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. However, consult a doctor before taking any medication. Exercise and Weight Control : The risk of developing colon cancer may be lower inwomen who enjoy regular physical activity and avoid obesity. Eating Habits : Research suggests that eating low-fat, high-fiber foods would help lower the chances of developing colon cancer. Smoking : Smoking is a leading cause of cancer and death from cancer and harms nearly every organ of the body. Signs and symptoms See your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks. They could indicate a non-cancerous intestinal disorder, such as an ulcer or hemorrhoids, or they could be a sign of cancer. l Diarrhea or constipation l Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool l Stools that are smaller in width than usual l Abdominal gas and discomfort l Frequent gas pains l Feeling that the bowel never completely empties l Unexplained weight loss l Unexplained anemia l Constant tiredness Dr Mohana Vamsy Ch., MS (Gen), DNB (Surg), MCh (Surg. Onco), FRCS (Edin), Diploma lap Surg (France) Chief Surgical Oncologist Email: vamsy1964@gmail.com