If you are a male aged 40 or above and have a first degree family history of colon cancer(father, brother),

Then:

Have a full colonoscopy procedure done NOW! 131,000 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer each year.

Why? This is a slow growing cancer that does not produce any symptoms, or if it does, you think it's something else. Things like diarrhea or constipation. You wouldn't think "colon cancer" then! Then there is constant fatigue. You might think you are doing too much. Or you might start taking vitamins to boost your energy level.

Lastly, there is loss of weight and appetite. A plethora of illnesses might cause this. Do you see how vague and misleading these symptoms are?

Except for rectal bleeding or diverticulosis. My own father had this for at least 10 years before he was diagnosed with colon cancer. His own doctors (he went to more than one) were puzzled. Some said it was nothing to worry about. A few months before he was diagnosed, he had severe and unexplainable abdominal pain, but thought it must be something else, and then hoped it would go away. Finally he went to see his doctor who sent him immediately to an oncologist. He was then diagnosed with colon cancer. It was already too late; the cancer had spread to his liver.

Please don't wait that long! In summary:

1. If you have a family history of colon cancer or rectal bleeding, get a full colonoscopy done when you reach 40 years  of age.

2. Over the next four years, have various other less invasive colon tests done, e.g. sigmoidoscopy, fecal occult blood test, or a barium enema. When you are 45 (or the fifth year), have another complete colonoscopy done. Stay with this five year cycle for the rest of your life.

3. Consider a higher fiber lower fat diet and a more active lifestyle. You'll feel better anyway!

4. If you experience ANY rectal bleeding, go immediately to your doctor, even if you've already had a colonoscopy or other tests.

5. If you experience ANY severe abdominal pain that you can't easily explain, go immediately to your doctor.

Remember, early detection is the key to beating any cancer, but especially the ones with no or misleading symptoms! The best of health to you.

About the Author:

John Soares, Men's Health Advocate
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