Colon cancer, a leading health concern for many South Africans, remains a silent threat for several individuals. Detecting the symptoms earlier rather than later can drastically improve one’s prognosis, and this article aims to shed light on the often-overlooked signs of this ailment.

1. Changes in Bowel Habits:

A noticeable alteration in bowel habits over several weeks can be a symptom. These symptoms include diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of the stool. If these symptoms persist for over a couple of weeks, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Blood in Stool:

Bright red or very dark blood in your stool is a red flag. While this can indicate other ailments, such as haemorrhoids, it’s a common sign of colon cancer and warrants a medical check-up.

3. Persistent Abdominal Discomfort:

Cramps, gas, pain, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen that doesn’t go away might be more than a stomach upset. These are potential indications of colon cancer.

4. Weakness or Fatigue:

Constant tiredness or unexplained weight loss can be alarming. Though shared with other conditions, these symptoms can signify colon cancer, especially when coinciding with other symptoms.

5. Iron-Deficiency Anaemia:

Colon cancer can lead to a persistent loss of blood, which may not always be noticeable in the stool. This loss can result in iron deficiency anaemia, characterised by symptoms like pale skin, dizziness, or even shortness of breath.

6. Feeling Like Your Bowel Doesn’t Empty:

If you constantly feel like you need to pass a bowel motion, even after just having done so, it could be a sign.

Understanding the stages of colon cancer helps put the severity into perspective. While the early stages might show minimal symptoms, the advanced stages have a more pronounced manifestation:

Stage 3 Colon Cancer: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not to distant sites. Early detection, even at this stage, can enhance treatment outcomes.

Colon Cancer Stage 4: The most advanced stage, stage 4 colon cancer, indicates that the cancer has spread to distant sites and organs in the body. Given the advanced nature of stage 4, it’s essential to understand the ‘stage 4 colon cancer survival rate by age’. This helps in shaping the treatment approach and setting realistic expectations. The survival rate varies with factors like age, overall health, and how extensively cancer has spread.

Knowing the symptoms and the importance of early detection is only half the battle. Taking prompt action can save lives. Every South African must be aware and vigilant of these signs for their well-being and the community’s health.

For a deeper dive into colon cancer and a comprehensive understanding, click here to read more.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

References:

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Walters, S. Maringe, C., & Coleman, M. P. (2013). Lung cancer survival and stage at diagnosis in South Africa, the United States, and England: A population-based study. Cancer Epidemiology, 37(3), e207-e216. 

DeSantis, C. E. Lin, C. C., & Mariotto, A. B. (2014). Cancer treatment and survivorship statistics, 2014. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 64(4), 252-271. 

Edwards, B. K. Noone, A. M. & Mariotto, A. B. (2014). Annual report to the nation on the status of cancer, 1975-2010, featuring prevalence of comorbidity and impact on survival among persons with lung, colorectal, breast, or prostate cancer. Cancer, 120(9), 1290-1314.