Scientific Discovery May Help Detect Colon Cancer Earlier

Did you know that colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States? The American Cancer Society estimates that there are 145,000 new cases of colorectal cancer every year, and 56,000 deaths. However, that trend may be on its way to changing. A team of scientists claim that they have discovered a pattern of chemical changes in subjects who were diagnosed with pre-cancerous polyps—a finding that could help detect colon cancer earlier than current testing methods. Let’s take a look at this exciting discovery . . .

A team of scientists claim that they have discovered a pattern of chemical changes in subjects who were diagnosed with pre-cancerous polyps—a finding that could help detect colon cancer earlier than current testing methods.

The polyps found were expected to turn into tumors.

The potential that this new finding could change the way people are screened for this common form of cancer is welcome news. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, second only to lung cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that there are 145,000 new cases of colorectal cancer every year. 56,000 of those diagnosed will die annually, but if caught early, colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable of all cancers.

Yearly screenings (fecal occult) are recommended for everyone over the age of 50, and a sigmoidoscopy and/or colonoscopy may be performed every five to ten years. But if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, have had polyps removed before, or have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, you may be at increased risk and should seriously consider starting regular screenings at age 40. Regardless of risk level, your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam as part of your annual physical when you turn 40.

Polyps that have yet to develop into cancer and colorectal cancer in its early stages often fail to produce noticeable symptoms, but as the cancer develops, warning signs include bloating or excessive gas, blood in the stool or narrowed stools, sudden weight loss, diarrhea, constipation and fatigue.

Daily exercise and a healthy diet play a large role in lowering the risk of colorectal cancer. A diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber is highly recommended, as is the taking of aspirin, folate and calcium supplements. Also, if you are clinically overweight, shedding those extra pounds will reduce your cancer risk.

Colon cleansing, such as colonic irrigation and other invasive procedures that manually flush out the contents of the colon, is considered controversial by some as there have been no clinical trials that support its effectiveness and is believed by some to do more harm than good. The most effective and medically safe way to cleanse the colon may be to add more fiber to the diet.