subject: Colon Cancer Staging Dukes [print this page] Colon Cancer Staging Dukes along with breast and cervical cancer is considered to be one of the 'big three' cancers that is prevalent in North America. Colon Cancer Staging DukesThe colon is the 'tube' at the end of our digestive tract which stores waste prior to its expulsion. The termination of the colon is called the 'rectum' and the complete tubular structure is the large intestine. This whole system is considered together when we are discussing colon cancer. Symptoms associated with colon cancer: There are no concrete symptoms that can be used to diagnose colon cancer directly, but rather there are a cluster of conditions that may signify there is a problem. So if in doubt, it is best to visit your physician. Common Symptoms: 1. If the cancer is in proximity to the anus: constipation, diarrhea, tenesmus (painful and constant need to empty the bowels), narrowing of stool, and presence of blood or mucus in the stools. 2. If the cancer is located further up: melena, or black stool is a commonly reported symptom. 3. Large colon cancer tumors may obstruct the passing of feces and show up as constipation, abdominal pain or distension. Vomiting can also occur. 4. Anemia, weight loss, and a loss of appetite are also signs. Risk Factors: Lung Cancer Secrets Revealed Click here 1. Genetics: If cancer runs in the family, with a large number of close relatives afflicted or an unusually young age to develop cancer, this can point to high risk of colon cancer. Other conditions are familial adenomatous polyposis which makes cancer in the colon more likely and should warrant an immediate visit to the physician. 2. Age: The chances of developing colon cancer jump suddenly once an individual hits the 60s, and thus regular check ups after this age become a must. 3. Smoking and drinking present high risk factors. 4. Consuming large amounts of meat with little fiber puts us at greater risk. 5. Sedentary individuals are also at higher risk. 6. Other conditions correlating to increased risk of colon cancer are lowered selenium levels, a history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. 1. Barium enema x-ray: As the name suggests an enema is administered and the barium contained within is able to expose tumors or polyps as dark shadows on x-rays 2. Colonoscopy: It is the most commonly used test. A tube with video capabilities is inserted up the intestinal tract to detect polyps. If any polyps are found tests are conducted to see if they are colon cancer, depending on the results of subsequent biopsies. Biopsies require small tissue samples from the patient. If cancer is confirmed, the polyp has already been removed (due to colonoscopy), but tests need to be performed to search for metastasis if any. Typically the lungs, liver and the abdomen are especially important. CEA is a product of some cancerous cells, whose elevated concentrations is used as an indication of spread of colon cancer. lung cancer treatment breakthroughs Click here
Colon Cancer Staging Dukes
By: Ryan English
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