Colon cancer begins in the large intestine or colon, which is the final part of the digestive tract. It can cause various symptoms, including diarrhea or constipation, rectal bleeding, and persistent abdominal discomfort. It is a common type of cancer and can be prevented and successfully treated. This article looks at the prevention tips for colon cancer along with various treatment options that can be explored.

Prevention Tips for Colon Cancer

1. Schedule a colon cancer screening
In general, everyone above 45 years of age must get screened for colon cancer, especially those with a family history of the disease and other risk factors. There are several screening tests for colon cancer, such as fecal occult blood test (FOBT)/fecal immunochemical test (FIT), colonoscopy, and flexible sigmoidoscopy. Some tests can even remove precancerous growths (polyps) in the colon or rectum. Depending on the type of screening an individual chooses, they may be required to schedule a screening once every year, five years, or ten years.

2. Eat healthy
Loading up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been associated with a decreased risk of colon cancer. That may be because these foods are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients. Experts recommend eating a wide variety of fruits, veggies, and whole grains to get a slew of nutrients. Eating healthy also involves avoiding or limiting foods that can increase the risk of colon cancer, such as red meat and processed meat.

3. Exercise regularly
Those who are not physically active are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer. So, it’s important to introduce exercise into the routine. Besides, exercising also helps reduce the risk for numerous diseases. Health experts recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity workout multiple times a week. Any form of physical activity is beneficial, be it brisk walking, jogging, dancing, cycling, or gardening.

4. Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight is a major risk factor for colon cancer. It has also been linked to a wide variety of health conditions, including several other forms of cancer. Multiple studies observe that those with extra fat around their waist are at a higher risk for colon cancer. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can lower an individual’s chances of developing the disease. Both exercising and eating healthy play a crucial role in weight management.

Treatment Options for Colon Cancer

There are various treatment options for colon cancer. The treatment approach doctors recommend to a particular individual usually depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the tumor. In general, the most common treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery is a viable option in both the early and advanced stages of the disease. In the early stages, surgery is minimally invasive and usually involves removing polyps using laparoscopic surgery.

Advanced-stage colon cancer involves colectomy, which is surgery to remove part or all of the colon. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy are administered depending on a combination of factors. They may also be supplementary treatments along with surgery.