Recent years have seen the colon cancer is now one of the cancers that are growing fastest for young people. It is estimated that one in 24 men and one in 26 women are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lives.
A condition once believed to have mostly affected those who were over 50 years old, colorectal cancer has been surfacing much more frequently among people who are in their 30s, 20s and 40s. If you’re a millennial, being aware of the best ways to avoid colon cancer with healthy lifestyle choices and a proper screening can save your life.
In light of the fact that more young people are diagnosed with colon cancer, it’s important to know why this is happening, what could be the cause of the increase in colon cancer, what indications to be aware of and the steps you should adopt to safeguard you and your health.
If you or a loved one are concerned about colon cancer in Ahmedabad, specialists at Airavat Cancer Care can provide expert screenings, personalized advice, and advanced treatment options to support your health journey.
What Is The Reason Why Colon Cancer Rates Are Growing Among Younger People?
Although the rates for older people have decreased due to regular screenings, the incidences for those who are younger than 55 are increasing steadily. As of now, 20% of the new cancers of colorectal cancers have been diagnosed among people less than 55, which is up from 11% in 1995.
Although researchers are trying to determine the precise factors behind this trend, some contributing factors involve changes to diets and lifestyles that lead to sedentary, increasing weight-loss rates, and disturbances to the health of your gut. However, for many people, younger than the colon cancer is likely to develop without evident danger factors.
The good part is that once colon cancer is discovered in the earliest stage, the disease is extremely treatable. The rate of survival at 5 years for colon cancer that is at an early stage is approximately 90%..
This is why it’s crucial to be aware, spot the warning signs earlier and to make sure you take preventive measures seriously.
Check for the Warning Signs of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer can develop with no symptoms when it is in its early stages and that’s why screening is crucial. But, some symptoms ought to cause you to talk with your physician, regardless of the age of your patient:
- Changes in the bowel routine lasting more than a couple of days (diarrhea, constipation or constipation)
- Stool blood, or bleeding from the rectum
- A persistent abdominal pain (cramping and gas or the sensation of pain)
- Feeling that the stool doesn’t fully empty
- Unexplained loss of weight
- Affliction or fatigue
Even though these symptoms may not always suggest cancer, they shouldn’t be dismissed, particularly in the case of being unusual or new in your case. If you notice any such symptoms, it’s advisable to seek expert consultation for colon cancer treatment in Ahmedabad.
What is The Best Colon Cancer Age of Screening?
The purpose of screening is to detect and remove cancerous polyps before they turn into cancer or catch cancer in its early, more treatable stage. Colon cancer happens to be the third most frequent form of cancer. It is the third most common type; however, a lot of instances could be avoided by screening.
The suggested screening for colon cancer at a certain date has changed in response to the increasing incidence of early-onset cancers.
The screening options are:
- Colonoscopy is typically performed every 10 years in cases where results are consistent
- Tests based on stool, usually done at least once a year, or each 3 years.
Colon Cancer Screenings for People with A Greater Risk
If you’re more at risk of developing colon cancer, your physician may recommend an individual screening program that is designed to meet your particular risks. It could be that you start screenings earlier or perform them more frequently or use a specific kind of test.
Discuss regular or earlier testing with your physician if you suffer from any of these:
- An underlying colon polyp or colon cancer that has occurred previously
- Close family members (especially younger than 60) with the disease of polyps, colon cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disorders such as Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis
- An individual or family background of genetic diseases like Lynch syndrome or adenomatous familial polyposis
How Can You Prevent Colon Cancer in 6 Methods to Reduce the Chance
If you’re still a long way from the first colon screening, it’s a good idea to start developing habits today that will help safeguard your colon’s health for the long run. There are six simple lifestyle changes that could make a difference.
1. Keep Your Weight in a Healthy Range
Being overweight has been associated with an increased risk of developing rectal or colon cancer. Inflammation can be a result of obesity and insulin resistance. Both can be linked to the development of cancer. Making an effort to maintain an ideal weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising can lower the chance of getting cancer by a significant amount.
2. Eat A Balanced, Fiber-Rich Diet
Food choices matter. A diet high in processed and red meats (like hot dogs, bacon or the deli meats) are associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Contrarily, the fiber-rich food items like fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, and legumes help maintain the health of your digestive system as well as help to feed healthy gut bacteria.
Here are some easy alternatives to consider:
- Replace food items that are processed with fresh ingredients
- Go for whole grains, not refined carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of meat in your meals and play by using recipes made of plants
If you’re not certain where to start or what to do, a registered dietitian is a great resource.
3. Make Sure You Are Active
Regular activity promotes a healthy digestive system and reduces inflammation within the body. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming every week. A few short strolls after eating are a great way to improve your gut’s motility as well as overall health.
4. Don’t Smoke
Smoking cigarettes isn’t only linked to lung cancer. Smoking is also linked to an increased risk of rectal and colon cancer. If you smoke, stopping is among the most crucial ways to decrease your risk of developing cancer and enhance your health overall.
5. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol frequently or in large quantities could cause irritation to the lining of the colon and increase an increased risk for cancer. To prevent cancer, you should limit your consumption of alcohol to 1 drink per day for women, and two for males, or to stay clear of it all altogether.
6. Keep Hydrated
Maintaining hydrated by drinking sufficient fluids helps the digestive system to function well and helps ensure regular stool motions. In chronic dehydration, it can result in constipation and can prolong the length of time that harmful substances remain within the intestinal lining. Consider drinking water as your preferred beverage all day long.
Today, Do You Have The Opportunity To Stop Colon Cancer?
The dramatic rise of colorectal cancer that is early in onset, is a warning for younger generations. Contrary to other types of cancer, colorectal cancer can be prevented through timely screening, and through modifying risk variables.
The process of prevention doesn’t need a total change in your lifestyle overnight. Simple, consistent modifications add up, and could be beneficial to your overall health.
- Discuss with your physician the risk factors that you face in particular if you’ve got an ancestral background of colorectal cancer, or persistent digestive issues.
- Be aware of the recommended screening age and have the first appointment by age 45or later when you are advised to do so.
- Begin to incorporate healthier practices in your everyday life by taking one small step at a time.
The millennial generation is in a completely different environment when it comes to colon cancer. However, there is no reason to be powerless. If you take an active part in your overall health to can reduce the chance of developing the disease and remain ahead of the time. If you are looking for experienced colon cancer doctors in Ahmedabad, Airavat Cancer Care offers expert consultations, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive care to support you every step of the way.
