Colon_Cancer

Colon Cancer Laura S. Carlton HCA/240 04/26/2013 Yosely Cruz, RN, MHSA, MSN Colon Cancer Colon cancer is a cancer that forms in the tissues in the colon. Colon cancer generally starts out as polyps that are harmless but if not removed can develop cancerous cells. Cancerous cells divide and damage the tissue around them, and they can also enter the blood stream and spread to other parts of the body (Thirdage, 2009). Colon Cancer is a disease that can be prevented by making lifestyle changes however, it is the leading cause of death from cancer in the United States. Most individuals consume large amounts of red meats in their daily diet and not enough fiber; this is a main factor in the development of colon cancer. Colon cancer symptoms are changes in bowel habit, there may be abdominal pressure or discomfort, weight loss, diarrhea, or constipation the symptoms can be mistaken for other health issues so many times will go undiagnosed until the condition has progressed (Zelman, Tompary, & Raymond, Chapter 9, 2010). Lifestyle changes that would either prevent or control the disease would to be sure that you maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke, get regular exercise every day, and eat plenty of fiber to keep your bowels healthy. It is best to limit the amount of red meats that you consume in your daily diet. Another strategy that is important would be to know your family history, if you have colon cancer in the family history then you run a higher risk than the average individual. Even if it does not run in the family you still need to be screened for it regularly, or as your physician recommends. Early detection is key to preventing the disease from developing colon cancer grows slowly so if it is detected early it can be cured in most cases (Colorectal Cancer, 2013). There are only a few factors that might make it difficult to follow the preferred lifestyle to avoid colon cancer; one of those factors would be if you do not have health insurance that covers preventive care. The strategy to get around this is to check with your local public assistance office to see if you qualify for assistance, or look for employment that will give you medical benefits. You could also check into the private insurance it may not be real cheap but it sure is lower cost than the emergency room or surgeries if you develop colon cancer. I would choose the lifestyle change over medication. It is a better choice to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen and avoid the risks associated with poor diet and neglecting your health. I will also have screening to check because it does run in my family. References Colorectal Cancer. (2013). Retrieved fromwww.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer Thirdage.com/health for baby boomers and beyond. (2013). Retrieved from www.thirdage.com/hc/c/colon-cancer-prevention Zelman, M., Tompary, E., Raymond, J., Holdaway, P., & Mulvihill, M. (2010). Human diseases: A systemic approach (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.