Top Myths Associated with Colon Cancer
Cancer of the colon is a particularly terrifying form of the illness. More than 50,000 people lose their lives to this disease annually, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. Checkups should be scheduled regularly to prevent illness. However, many individuals avoid potentially lifesaving screenings like colonoscopies due to anxiety or lack of knowledge. There are several misconceptions about colon cancer San Antonio that this article will dispel to equip you with the facts.
Here are a few of the most widespread misconceptions:
Most cases of colon cancer occur in white men
Colorectal cancer strikes people from all walks of life and genders equally. However, African-Americans have the greatest chance of contracting the illness and dying from it among all racial and ethnic groups in the United States.
Age is the most important risk factor: The vast majority of persons diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over 50. Nonetheless, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of teenagers diagnosed with colorectal cancer in recent years. Therefore, the American Cancer Society has updated its screening recommendations to suggest that people start being checked at age 45.
Death is a certainty for those diagnosed with colorectal cancer
If caught early, colorectal cancer has a chance of being cured. Five years following diagnosis, the survival rate for individuals with localized colorectal cancer (limited to the colon or rectum) is above 90%. Only around one-third of all cases of colorectal cancer are detected at this stage. Sadly, most patients with colon cancer don’t seek medical attention until the cancer has already progressed beyond the lining of the intestines, either via the rectum or to other areas of the body.
It is safe to assume that I don’t have colon cancer because I have never had any of the associated symptoms
The widespread belief that colorectal cancer would present obvious signs is a prevalent fallacy. The absence of symptoms is the most pervasive presentation. In almost half of cases, patients show no symptoms before the diagnosis.
Alterations in feces, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss are all possible indicators of colon cancer. However, the emergence of such symptoms often indicates the presence of a more serious underlying condition. After showing signs, colon cancer diagnosis rates drop to 50 percent mortality.
Colon cancer is not found in females
The American Cancer Society reports that although males are somewhat more likely to acquire colon cancer (1 in 21 will have the illness in his lifetime), women are practically at the same risk (1 in 23). The only malignancies that are more frequently diagnosed among women are breast and lung cancers, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The American Cancer Society suggests beginning colon cancer screening around age 50 for both sexes and then repeating the process at regular intervals afterward. High-risk individuals need more frequent and early screenings for colon cancer. Discuss the best timing and frequency for any necessary tests with your physician.
Colon cancer can be an intimidating subject, but it doesn’t have to be! By arming yourself with the facts, you can ensure you know the top myths associated with colon cancer and make informed decisions about your health. Knowledge is power, and staying informed about colon cancer myths and facts can help you make healthier choices for yourself and your family.