Over the course of the past year, we have all been so wrapped up in the Covid-19 pandemic, and we have especially been concerned for our elders, since their immune systems are not as strong. There are other common diseases potentially affecting our fellow adults and grandparents. One example is colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer are tumors or polyps that develop in the large intestine, otherwise known as the colon. It, as with other forms of cancer, is caused by a mutation in the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). DNA, a series of nucleotides, provides instructions for the development of the human body. When it is damaged or altered, cells begin to perform differently. In this type of cancer, cells divide uncontrollably, forming tumors in our organs.
This cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States; 150,000 new cases are detected each year. Usually, males have it more than females, and it is found in people over the age of 65. Other risk factors include a bad diet, such as one with a high amount of saturated fats and low fiber, alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, obesity and little exercise, and a family history of colorectal cancer. Symptoms include bloody stool, constipation, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Colon cancer can be diagnosed in a number of ways. Sigmoidoscopies and colonoscopies are two. Both involve an examination of the large intestine for polyps or tumors with a camera. Another type is barium enema, a CT scan, which involves consuming a radiopaque drink, which will pass through the colon, and any tumors will appear on an x-ray screen. Radiopaque drinks contain iodine, which blocks x-rays, and this special type of drink will make your large intestine appear white, and the tumor will appear black.
Further tests may be conducted to determine the spread of the cancer and to decide which means of treatment will be most effective. These tests include ultrasounds, blood tests, MRI scans, PET scans, and chest x-rays to check for the spread of cancer to the lungs. The spread of colon cancer is marked in four stages. Stage 1 means that the cancer is still in the inner lining of the colon; stage 2 indicates that it has spread to the layer of muscle within the colon; the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes in stage 3. Lastly, stage 4 means that the cancer has spread to another organ in the body. Additionally, there are grades which depict how fast the cancer escalates. Grade 1 means that the cancer spreads slowly, grade 2 indicates that it proliferates moderately, and grade 3 signals that it develops rapidly.
Methods of treatment include biotherapy, biopsies, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Some ways to lower your chances of getting this type of cancer are a healthy diet (one high in fiber and low in saturated fats and low consumption of red or processed meats), a decent amount of physical activity (150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week), a healthy weight, quitting smoking and drinking, regular examinations for colon cancer, and an adequate dose of Vitamin D every day. Some foods that are high in Vitamin D are fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms. You can also boost your Vitamin D by spending plenty of time in the sunlight.
In conclusion, colorectal cancer is a common malignant disease that affects many, including elders, every year. It is right for us to keep researching colon cancer and other kinds of cancers and to protect our fellow adults from these diseases.
Citations
Mandal, Dr. Ananya. “What Is Colorectal Cancer?” News, 5 June 2019, www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Colorectal-Cancer.aspx.
Mandal, Dr. Ananya. “Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis.” News, 3 June 2019, www.news-medical.net/health/Colorectal-Cancer-Diagnosis.aspx.
Mandal, Dr. Ananya. “Colorectal Cancer Prevention.” News, 3 June 2019, www.news-medical.net/health/Colorectal-Cancer-Prevention.aspx.
“Colon Cancer News, Articles and Research.” News, www.news-medical.net/condition/Colon-Cancer.
“Calcium and Vitamin D: Top Foods to Prevent Osteoporosis.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/calcium-vitamin-d-foods.
“CT Oral Contrast Prep for Abdomen/Pelvis with Contrast.” Heart & Family Health Institute, heartandfamilyhealthinstitute.com/services/ct-oral-contrast-prep-for-abdomen-pelvis-with-contrast.
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