Colon cancer is an important public health problem that is the third most common in women and the second most common in men in our country, and can be treated effectively with early diagnosis. One of the most important features that distinguishes colon cancer from other cancers is the chance of early diagnosis. Assoc. Prof. from the Department of Gastroenterology. Dr. Erdem Akbal pointed out that colon cancer is among the first preventable cancer types. Assoc. Dr. Akbal recommended that screening should be done to take precautions against colon cancer, which can have fatal consequences.
Main factors
Assoc. Prof. explained that some factors are priority in the development of colon cancer. Dr. Akbal said, "Age, smoking, alcohol, gender, obesity, decreased physical activity, having relatives with colon cancer in the family or having genetically inherited cancer syndromes (bladder cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer) are risk factors for colon cancer." " he said.
You should choose fibrous vegetables and fruits!
Underlining that the epithelial cells in the colon are damaged at the cellular level in the first step in the development of colon cancer, Assoc. Dr. Akbal continued as follows: "There are a number of dietary factors that trigger this disorder. Fat content in foods, especially animal fat content, is an important factor. One of the most popular topics in recent times is the presence of certain carcinogenic substances containing nitrous amine, which is a risk factor for cancer by disrupting the bacterial order in the intestines." It causes an increase in production.
High consumption of red meat causes an increase in the risk of colon cancer by causing the formation of iron and some carcinogenic substances. A diet low in fiber and low in vegetables and fruits causes an increase in the risk of colon cancer.
Consult your doctor
If screening for colon cancer is not performed on time in patients who have no complaints, the life expectancy in these patient groups is shorter as the disease usually progresses until the complaint occurs. It can also cause different complaints depending on the location in the intestine.
Bleeding, constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, change in bowel habits or changes in the shape of the stool, weakness, fatigue. Weight loss and iron deficiency are also among the symptoms of colon cancer. If you have these findings, be sure to consult your doctor."
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