Dangerous Effects of Colon Cancer, Say Experts — Eat This Not That

By Ghuman

Introduction

Colon cancer is one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer, and it can have serious and dangerous effects on your health. According to experts, the best way to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer is to make healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Eating the right foods and avoiding unhealthy ones can help reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. In this article, we will discuss the dangerous effects of colon cancer and provide tips on what to eat and what to avoid to reduce your risk.

Dangerous Effects of Colon Cancer, Say Experts — Eat This Not That

Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and it can have serious and dangerous effects on your health. According to experts, the effects of colon cancer can range from mild to severe, and can even be life-threatening. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with this type of cancer so that you can take steps to reduce your risk.

What Are the Effects of Colon Cancer?

The effects of colon cancer can vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the individual. Some of the most common effects of colon cancer include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Blood in the stool
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Anemia

If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it can cause additional symptoms, such as pain in the bones, shortness of breath, and jaundice. In some cases, the cancer can even spread to the liver, lungs, and other organs, which can be life-threatening.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Colon Cancer?

The best way to reduce your risk of colon cancer is to make healthy lifestyle choices. Eating a balanced diet that is low in fat and high in fiber can help reduce your risk. Additionally, getting regular exercise and avoiding smoking can also help reduce your risk. Additionally, it is important to get regular screenings for colon cancer, as early detection can make a huge difference in the outcome.

Conclusion

Colon cancer can have serious and dangerous effects on your health. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with this type of cancer so that you can take steps to reduce your risk. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and getting regular screenings can all help reduce your risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. But experts say that it’s one of the few cancers that are largely preventable, thanks to screenings. Good reasons to follow your doctor’s advice on getting screened: Undetected cancer that’s advanced is harder to treat, and colon cancer can have these dangerous effects. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

Woman anemia
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A common symptom of colon cancer is rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, says the Mayo Clinic. Internal bleeding of this kind can cause anemia, in which the body doesn’t make enough red blood cells. That can cause symptoms such as fatigue, easy bruising, and paleness. If a routine blood test shows you’re anemic, ask your doctor if screening for colon cancer is warranted, particularly if you’re male. 

weight loss
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Losing weight without trying is a common sign of several cancers, including colon cancer. It happens when cancer cells hijack the body’s metabolism to promote its own growth. If you’re dropping pounds without having changed your diet or exercise routine, it’s worth giving your healthcare provider a call. 

Door knob on or off the bathroom
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Although rare, experts say that colon cancer can obstruct the bowel. This can prevent stool from passing normally. It can become an emergency situation, potentially resulting in colon perforation, in which bacteria and cancer cells spread throughout the body.  

Woman in her 30s sits by her living room window with a cup of tea and looks out contemplatively. She is a cancer survivor and is wearing a headscarf.
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If colon cancer isn’t detected early, it can become advanced, spreading to other parts of the body. Cancer is always easier to treat when it’s caught in its earliest stages. This is is particularly true of colon cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for colon cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body is 17%. For cancer that’s localized to the colon, the survival rate is 90%.

prostate cancer
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Experts say colon cancer is largely preventable through screening. During a colonoscopy, any precancerous growths (known as polyps) can be removed before they progress to cancer. Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people begin routine colon cancer screening at age 45. In recent years, 50% fewer people have died of colon cancer because of screening. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about colon cancer. And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.

Michael Martin

Michael Martin is a New York City-based writer and editor whose health and lifestyle content has also been published on Beachbody and Openfit. A contributing writer for Eat This, Not That!, he has also been published in New York, Architectural Digest, Interview, and many others. Read more