We feel uncomfortable talking about butts unless they are attached to Kim Kardashian or Jennifer Lopez. We do our squats and lunges, but we don’t pay much attention to the inside of our butts -- our colons. March marks the 16th official Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. Statistically, one in 24 people will get colorectal cancer in their lifetime; yet, we aren’t talking about it. Only 11 percent of people diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer will survive. The problem is that many times, the cancer goes unnoticed before this stage. The reason is partly because the age to be screened for colorectal cancer is age 50, and partly because we don’t want to talk about poop. When was the last time you looked at the color and shape of your poop? Did that sentence make you uncomfortable? It shouldn’t, but it does. We need to have an open conversation about our colons. Here is important information regarding colon cancer awareness.
Colon cancer is known as a silent killer because the biggest symptom is having no symptoms at all. Because of this, it is important to be screened for colon cancer. Regular screening begins at age 50, but it’s never too early to be screened, especially if you have a family history of colon cancer, polyps, colitis, IBS or Crohn’s disease. There are a few screening tests, but the most common is a colonoscopy. The prep for a colonoscopy is basically having diarrhea for a day without eating, but if it saves your life, then why not do it? During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a flexible, lighted tube to search for cancer or polyps in the colon.
Some symptoms associated with colon cancer:
Blood in the stool -- ranging from bright red to dark, almost black, red.
Changes in bowel movement -- diarrhea, constipation and change in the shape of stool, especially if it is more narrow than usual.
Persistent abdominal discomfort -- feeling bloated, gassy or cramped.
It is important to note that these symptoms are also symptoms of many other problems. If these symptoms are persistent, then see a doctor. A doctor may recommend a diagnostic test.
Preventing colon cancer goes deeper than being screened. Be more mindful of what you put in your body. A healthy diet can lower your chances of colon cancer. Diets low in animal fats and high in fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk. Some studies recommend taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. Other studies recommend being more active and limiting alcohol and tobacco consumptions. The best way to avoid colon cancer is to lead a healthy lifestyle and get screened.
Love your butt. Those who are diagnosed with colon cancer have small chances of survival, but it is preventable. Be more in tune to your body and know the warning signs.
