Healthcare Niche
Do you know The Biggest Myths About Colon Cancer? A particularly scary variety of diseases is colon cancer. This illness is the second greatest cause of cancer-related mortality, taking the lives of more than 50,000 people each year. To avoid disease, checkups should be scheduled frequently. However, because to fear or ignorance, many people forego potentially life-saving screenings like colonoscopies. This essay will refute some myths regarding colon cancer in San Antonio and arm you with the information you need.
Read More:Breast Cancer Education How Can One Reduce Risk
Contents
Most cases of colon cancer occur in white men
People of all ages and genders are affected by colorectal cancer equally. However, among all racial and ethnic groups in the US, African-Americans have the highest risk of developing the condition and passing away from it.
The greatest significant risk factor for colorectal cancer is age, with most cases occurring in people over 50. However, the number of teens receiving a colon cancer diagnosis has dramatically increased in recent years. The American Cancer Society has therefore changed its screening guidelines to advise that patients begin getting tested at age 45.
Death is a certainty for those diagnosed with colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer has a potential of being cured if detected early. The survival rate for those with locally advanced colorectal cancer (limited to the colon or rectum) is greater than 90% five years after diagnosis. Only about one-third of all colorectal cancer cases are discovered at this point. Sadly, the majority of patients with colon cancer wait until the disease has spread to other parts of the body or outside the lining of the intestines before seeking medical assistance.
It is safe to assume that I don’t have colon cancer because I have never had any of the associated symptoms
A common misconception is the idea that colorectal cancer will show visible symptoms. The most common presentation is one in which there are no symptoms. Patients present no symptoms prior to the diagnosis in roughly half of the instances.
Colon cancer may be detected by changes in faeces, rectal bleeding, stomach discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. The onset of these symptoms, however, frequently denotes the existence of a more serious underlying illness. Colon cancer diagnosis rates fall to 50% mortality after exhibiting symptoms.
Colon cancer is not found in females
According to the American Cancer Society, although men are roughly at the same risk of developing colon cancer (1 in 21 will do so in his lifetime), women are nearly at the same risk (1 in 23). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast and lung cancers are the only cancers that are more frequently diagnosed in women.
The American Cancer Society advises starting colon cancer screening for both sexes about age 50 and continuing it at regular intervals after that. High-risk people require earlier and more frequent colon cancer testing. With your doctor, decide on the optimal time and frequency for any essential testing.
The topic of colon cancer can be frightening, but it doesn’t have to be! By arming yourself with knowledge, you can make sure you are aware of the most common misconceptions about colon cancer and can make wise decisions regarding your health. Knowing the truth about colon cancer and avoiding common misconceptions will empower you to make better decisions for your family and yourself.