Colon cancer screening and detection
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon (the longest part of the large intestine) begin to grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors that can become cancerous. This growth often originates in polyps, which are abnormal growths in the lining of the colon that, over time, can become malignant.
How often does it occur?
Did you know that in Mexico the third most common cancer is colon cancer?
In our country, approximately 15,000 new cases of this type of cancer are diagnosed each year, according to data from the Ministry of Health.
Colon cancer is the leading cause of death from malignant tumors in Mexico City, the State of Mexico, and northern states of the country.
According to data from the American Society of Clinical Oncology, an estimated 1,880,725 cases of colon cancer were diagnosed worldwide in 2020. Of these, 1,148,515 were colon cancer and 732,210 were rectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for men and women worldwide.
What are the risk factors for developing colon cancer?
Being 50 years of age or older: However, the number of people under 50 who have colon cancer is increasing.
Having polyps in the colon
Polyps are small, benign, inflammatory growths in the colon, but over time they can increase in size and develop into cancer. It's difficult to know if a person has polyps, so regular screening tests are necessary to remove them before they become cancerous.
What are the symptoms?
Many people with colon cancer have no symptoms at first.
Changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation
Sensation that the bowel does not completely empty during defecation
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Weakness or tiredness
Continuous discomfort in the abdominal area, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
Unintentional weight loss
What should I do if I want to detect or rule out colon cancer?
Doctors recommend that people at average risk for colon cancer consider starting screening for this type of cancer around age 45.
However, those at higher risk should consider starting screening earlier. People at higher risk include those with a family history of colon cancer.
Colonoscopy is the best option because it allows you to see inside the colon and take biopsies.
How can I tell if I have colon cancer?
There are several tests available for the detection of colon cancer.
The colonoscopy study is the best study for detecting colon cancer, as it allows you to see directly inside the colon and take biopsies.