Resource: March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Colon Cancer is the uncontrolled division of cells in the large intestine (colon). In most cases, polyps form.  Polyps are non-cancerous outgrowths, but they can change to colon cancer if they are not removed at an early stage. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month.  Learn more about prevention and colon cancer screening.

Sign and symptoms

Many people don’t show any symptoms during the early stages of colon cancer, but in later stages, the following signs or symptoms may occur:

  1. Fatigue
  2. Rapid weight loss
  3. Stomach discomfort (cramps or gas)
  4. Change in bowel movements

Colon Cancer Prevention

According to studies, colon cancer can be prevented by many ways which include:

Screening

A screening process is very important, as it helps to diagnose cancer in pre-cancerous patients because early screening is best for prevention as well as treatment. You shouldn’t be afraid of screening techniques because this is for your benefit and your risk factors will be identified. The common screening methods are Fecal immunochemical test (FIT), Colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and flexible sigmoidoscopy. These tests help in the early detection of tumor formation.

Know Your Genetics

Colon cancer can also be due to genetics. If you have colon cancer in your family, then there are more chances of getting cancer. Try to figure out your genetics and get a regular screening at least once a year.

Adopt A Healthy Lifestyle

This is important in preventing every disease, but in cancer, obesity and smoking are the biggest enemies. Maintain a healthy weight along with having a well-balanced diet. Smoking and drugs can cause mutations, which may cause tumor formation. Try to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption and adopt healthy habits.

Be More Active

According to studies, the more a person is physically active, the chances of colon cancer decreases. Regular, intense activity can help prevent cancer onset.

Visit the Mayo Clinic website and watch this video to learn more.

Recent Resources

view more RESOURCES

Learn

Read Our Stories

Experience inspiring stories from our patients, family caregivers, physicians and others.

Encourage

Share Your Story

Tell others about yourself and your journey; inspire them to be MORE THAN CANCER.

Act

Advocate For Change

Engage with others and advance important causes by advocating for change.

Donate

Help Fund Love

Share a gift in any amount to help our research and education missions.

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Tell others in our community about yourself and your journey, and consider sharing great moments and lessons learned to help them become MORE THAN cancer.Share Your Story & Help Others!