Gynecology - Cancer and Women - Colon Cancer
COLON CANCER
Proper screening can prevent colon cancer. Few cancers are as easily preventable as colon cancer. Cancer of the colon is most likely to be detected early.
There are several warning signs and should you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. These include rectal bleeding or pain black and tar-like stools, change in bowel frequency, change in stool size, unexplained anemia, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, fatigue, or frequent vomiting.
People with family history of one or more relatives who have had colon cancer have a higher risk. It also occurs more frequently in older women or those with inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Colon cancer is also linked to diet. Low fat and high fiber diets may help reduce the risk of getting colon cancer.
A rectal exam should be performed with the pelvic exam. Screening is recommended beginning at age 50. Detection of colon cancer or pre-cancerous polyps is achieved through screening techniques known as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, barium enema, or virtual colonoscopy. Your healthcare provider may also perform fecal occult blood tests at regular checkups.
Colorectal Care Line www.colorectalcareline.org
ACOG.org for more information.
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