Also known as bowel cancer or colon or rectal cancer, colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer now. It is worth mentioning here that most people do not take notice of the subtle signs of this cancer.
For the purpose of survival, it is highly necessary to detect colorectal cancer in the early stage itself. Various risk factors that can lead to colorectal cancer in us are obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, diet etc. This type of cancer usually starts as a benign tumour in the form of polyp and later on becomes cancerous.
There are few signs of colorectal cancer such as
Constant change in bowel habits:
In some persons, there would be diarrhoea or constipation or they could have the feeling that the bowel is not completely empty. Truth is that when this condition is present for several weeks, then it could be a sign of colorectal cancer.
Blood in stools:
The blood in the stools might appear deep red or darkish in colour and this would be based on the location of the tumour. This might be an important sign of colorectal cancer.
Weight loss without any reason:
It is normal to lose weight when we do exercises and dieting etc. Some persons might lose their weight even without these and it might be due to colorectal cancer also. It is believed that the cancer cells would grow and multiply rapidly and weight loss might be because of high energy.
Chronic abdominal pain:
Colorectal cancer is also revealed by signs like persistent abdominal cramping, gas, or feeling discomfort or bloating type etc.
Weakness and fatigue:
After doing any physical activity, it is normal to feel fatigued and exhausted. Persons with colorectal cancer would feel fatigue and weak even when not active. This might be due to internal blood loss.
Reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by these ways:
Those persons who have a family history of colorectal cancer must get screened. By this, these persons could avoid or reduce the chances of getting colorectal cancer also.
We must eat foods that are high in fibre content like fruits/vegetables, whole grains etc. It is important to limit the intake of processed meats.
Avoiding smoking and alcohol intake is very important. Persons who have a family history of colorectal cancer must consult a doctor without fail.