Five common signs of colon cancer that are often ignored

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In 2020, more than 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer were reported, and it claimed 930,000 lives worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The agency also predicts that new colon cancer cases will rise to 3.2 million (an increase of 63%) per year by 2040, and the deaths will spike to 1.6 million per year (an increase of 73%). Early detection, therefore, is crucial to improve outcomes. However, many early symptoms are subtle, and the chances of it getting dismissed or mistaken for other, relatively less bothersome health concerns are high. This delays diagnosis, which negatively affects treatment plans and outcomes. Here are the five signs of colon cancer that are often ignored.

Any changes in the bowel habits should not be easily dismissed. Having persistent changes in bowel pattern, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that the bowel isn’t completely empty, is an early symptom of colon cancer. People often attribute these changes to diet or stress. However, if diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool lingers for more than a week, you should consult a doctor immediately.

An early sign of colon cancer is blood in the stool. If you notice bright red or dark blood in the stool, you need immediate medical help. These signs are often dismissed as hemorrhoids or minor gastrointestinal issues. Though such concerns, too, can lead to blood in stool, rectal bleeding should never be ignored. According to WHO, blood in the stool, either bright red or dark and tar-like, is a common symptom of colon cancer. Most colon cancer patients complain about rectal bleeding. Early investigation through a colonoscopy can clarify the cause and catch issues before they progress.

Frequent abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating that does not go away is a red flag. This could be an indication of colon cancer. When this abdominal pain persists, even after administering remedies, it's concerning. Many mistake this for irritable bowel syndrome or gas. If you have persistent abdominal pain and have other symptoms, you should consult a doctor and investigate the cause.

Remember, losing weight without trying is never a good sign. Sudden, unintentional weight loss may be a warning sign of cancer, including colon cancer. If you lose 10 pounds or more without changes in diet or exercise, you should talk to your doctor. This sign is often overlooked, and people tend to think it’s a positive change. If this symptom is combined with other colon cancer symptoms, it's worth investigating.Also See: Colon cancer rising among youngsters: Top US doc alerts about 5 warning signs ​

Feeling tired all the time, even after rest, is a red flag. Fatigue is another overlooked symptom, and people tend to attribute it to work or stress. Colon cancer can cause internal bleeding, leading to anemia and reduced energy levels. Studies have consistently shown that colon cancer patients have reported fatigue as an early symptom. It is easy to overlook this symptom for busy lifestyles. But if this sign is paired with other symptoms, it demands attention.

• age
• family history
• personal history
• lifestyle factors
  

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. It typically starts as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. The cancer can then grow into the wall of the colon and, if left untreated, can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body, a process called metastasis.
Also See: Colon Cancer: Best and worst foods for colon cancer prevention you need to know about​

• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Beans
• Berries
• Nuts
• Olive oil
• Citrus fruits
• Fatty fish

Include these in your diet everyday for long-term health protection.Also See: Colon cancer rising in young adults: 7 foods to avoid (and what to swap them with)​

Take care of these signs

Take care of yourself through diet and exercise

If you experience these signs, especially when 2 or more, it is important to schedule a visit to your doctor's to investigate its cause. When it comes to cancer, early detection is very crucial, for both the treatment options and outcomes. So, it is important to consult a doctor right away, if you notice any of these signs.