Early detection of colorectal cancer can be helpful to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Here are some early signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer.
- A change in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool.
- Blood in the stool, which is often misdiagnosed as dysentery or hemorrhoids hemorrhage.
- Abdominal pain like abdominal discomfort or bloating.
- Weakness and fatigue caused by a lower than normal level of red blood cells (anemia)
- Unintended weight loss
Some of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions such as infection, hemorrhoids, or irritable bowel syndrome.
A number of lifestyle measures can be taken to reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer:
- Regular screenings: Those who have had colorectal cancer before, who are over 50 years of age, who have a family history of this type of cancer, or have Crohn’s disease should have regular screenings.
- Diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber: Colorful plant-based food like spinach, broccoli, tree nuts and whole grains contain rich a variety of vitamins, minerals and fiber, which can help you stay away from colorectal cancer. Red and processed meats should be limited in the diet.
- Quit cigarettes and alcohol: Cigarettes and alcohol are linked to the risk of many cancers, including colorectal cancer. Quitting cigarettes and alcohol has a significant impact on lower a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Regular exercise: A number of studies have shown that regular excise can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer by about 20%. Individuals are usually advised to exercise 3 times a week, 30 minutes each time.