Thursday, January 28, 2010

What are the first symptoms of colon cancer

What are the first symptoms of colon cancer?
Would like to know if I am a candidate for colonoscopy. I am 59yrs, F, no family history of cancer, non smoker. Any recommendation?
Cancer - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I certainly think it would be a wise move at your age, even younger, 45-50. Early stages of colon cancer most often produce no symptoms, that is why screening, (colonoscopy) is so important. Symptoms may be be thin, ribbon-like stools (caused by obstruction/tumor) or blood in the stool but these can also be symptomatic of another problem, as is, chronic constipation and/or abdominal pain. Again, all the more reason for screening to rule it out and be sure. And an added note, most colo-rectal cancer occurs sporadically in an individual without any previous family history.
2 :
There really are no symptoms until it's too late. Colon cancer is all too common a killer of both men and women, but if caught early through direct inspection of the colon, often can be completely cured. A colonoscopy is not all that big a deal - I've helped perform them and I've had three of 'em myself. I agree with the majority of physicians who say everyone your age (never mind, I'm older than you) should have a complete cancer screening.
3 :
Its hard to predict it without blood test.

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