The presence of blood in the stool, abdominal pain and frequent constipation are reasons to see a doctor to rule out colon cancer. Suna Isakova, an oncologist at the SberHealth medical online service, told socialbites.ca about this.
Previously, US scientists had found that abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea and iron deficiency anemia indicated an increased risk of colon cancer in people younger than 50.
As the disease progresses, the symptoms usually increase (pain may be stronger, longer, more regular, blood volume may be greater), defecation becomes difficult with the increase in the size of the tumor (constipation), an increase in the size of the abdomen can be observed, sometimes the formation in the abdominal cavity can be palpated. possible, ”said Isakova.
The doctor noted that malignant tumors usually do not have specific symptoms, and other non-cancerous bowel diseases may also be associated with abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and anemia. For example, abdominal pain is common in irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis. Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) often results in diarrhea, pain, and blood in the stool. They can lead to the development of anemia, as well as hemorrhoids.
“Risk factors for colorectal cancer include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, a diet low in fiber and high in fat, and processed meats such as cold cuts and fried red meats, alcohol, and smoking. Family history and chronic bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) may also increase the risk of colon cancer.